I just got a Canon 90D and need a solid external flash for event photography. I am looking for the best value options that support E-TTL and High Speed Sync.
I have heard Godox is good, but I am unsure which model fits best. What are your favorite budget-friendly flashes that work reliably with this specific body?
Seconding the recommendation above. HSS basically pulses light faster than the shutter moves so you dont get black bars. I've used Godox for years and they're literally the best value for Canon.
Oh man, you are gonna love the 90D! It is such a fantastic choice for events! If you're looking for the absolute best bang for your buck while staying safe with a reliable brand, you seriously gotta check out the Godox TT685II-C Flash for Canon. It's amazing because it handles E-TTL perfectly so you dont have to constantly fiddle with settings in the middle of a busy shoot. Tbh, I'm always a bit cautious with super cheap electronics because I've seen some no-name flashes overheat or even mess up a camera hotshoe, but Godox is super legit and totally reliable with Canon gear. To save even more money, definitely look into grabbing some Panasonic Eneloop Pro Rechargeable AA Batteries instead of disposables. They last way longer and are way better for your wallet over time! If you need any more tips on setting it up for your first event, just ask. You're gonna do great!
Just sharing my experience: I went through this last year when I started doing more night events. Honestly, understanding the tech behind HSS is basically mandatory for the 90D because it lets you push past that 1/250 sync limit. If you dont have it, you get those nasty black bars on your shots when shooting fast... which is like, a total mood killer for event work. I looked at a bunch of data and eventually settled on these cuz they didnt break the bank: