What are the best external flashes for Canon EOS 5D Mark IV?

Question

I'm so incredibly frustrated right now honestly. I finally saved up and bought a used Canon 5D Mark IV because everyone said it was the best but I just realized it doesn't even have a flash?? Like there is no button to make it pop up like my old Rebel had and I feel like such an idiot for not checking that before. So now I'm scrambling because I'm supposed to take photos for my cousins small indoor wedding in Seattle in two weeks and I have no light. My logic was just to go on Amazon and buy whatever was cheapest but then I saw all these terms like TTL and master/slave and HSS and my brain is just totally fried. I have no idea what any of that means or if I even need it.

I really don't want to spend more than maybe $150 or $200 max since the camera body took all my savings but I also don't want to buy something that's gonna break or not talk to the camera right.

Do I have to buy Canon brand?

Is Godox okay for beginners?

What even is TTL?

I'm just so lost and every YouTube video I watch makes it sound even more complicated than it needs to be. Does anyone have a suggestion for a beginner who just needs something that works without having to do a math equation every time I take a picture...

Alice · Accepted Answer

Just saw this! Be careful with those super cheap generic flashes on Amazon tho, sometimes the recycle times are painfully slow. I would suggest the Yongnuo YN685 II Wireless TTL Speedlite for Canon for a solid budget pick. Also, make sure to grab Panasonic Eneloop Pro AA High Capacity Ni-MH Rechargeable Batteries because regular alkalines will die so fast during a wedding ceremony. You dont want to miss the kiss!

Thomas · Answer

Dont sweat it, the lack of a pop-up flash is actually standard for pro bodies like the 5D Mark IV to keep them weather-sealed and durable. I have been very satisfied with third-party options for years now. Specifically, I am quite happy with the Godox system as it works well without the Canon price tag. Here are the technical basics for your wedding shoot:

TTL (Through The Lens) is essential. It lets the camera calculate flash power automatically so you dont have to do math.

HSS (High Speed Sync) lets you use fast shutter speeds if you happen to be shooting wide open in daylight. I highly recommend the Godox TT685II-C TTL Flash for Canon. It has a solid Guide Number of 60 at ISO 100 and covers a 20-200mm zoom range. If you want a faster 1.5s recycle time, the Godox V860III-C TTL Li-ion Flash for Canon is excellent due to its 7.2V lithium battery. No complaints with either unit honestly.