I just checked the Vivitar 550FD, and according to the website:
8V, according to Ted Felix —
only 4.24V, per Stephen Sugiyama, and
5V per Timothy Horn (serial 0031524) — but
6.66V from Rick Zotz, 7.5V from Tri Do, and
10.18V (serial 5031715) by John D. Duvall...
other Vivtar flashes come up to 300V, but this one seems to be alright.
Regardless if I have a cheap lens like the 55-250 or an expensive/good one, I will still have to CHANGE them every time I'm in need of a different focal length. Do you think this will become an issue, or do many people do it that way and it's normal?
I just checked the Vivitar 550FD, and according to the website:
8V, according to Ted Felix —
only 4.24V, per Stephen Sugiyama, and
5V per Timothy Horn (serial 0031524) — but
6.66V from Rick Zotz, 7.5V from Tri Do, and
10.18V (serial 5031715) by John D. Duvall...
other Vivtar flashes come up to 300V, but this one seems to be alright.
I still thank you a lot for warning me.
Did you miss the column "EOS Safe" that said "Your Call". I wouldn't take that chance! If you look at the Current EX Flashes they are under 6V.
Regardless if I have a cheap lens like the 55-250 or an expensive/good one, I will still have to CHANGE them every time I'm in need of a different focal length. Do you think this will become an issue, or do many people do it that way and it's normal?
Well if you're so inclined, you can switch to a superzoom like the Canon 18-200IS to get the all-in-one/jack-of-all-trades sort of lens, but pretty much it's impossible to just completely abandon the idea of changing lenses if you want the best image quality. It's one of the major advantages of a DSLR system to a simple point-and-shoot.
If anything, go with a new flash. It's not worth ruining your only camera. Plus, a new flash made to fit your camera will give almost flawless performance. Also, go with a 50MM f1.8 lens. These are cheap cheap cheap. And they are very very very good. And on digital crop sensors, they are an excellent portrait lens.
I don't think anyone makes a plastic tripod, unless you consider carbon fiber to be plastic. Stick with that one for a while, since you have IS lenses to counteract camera movement.
Now, get out and shoot some pictures. That is the best way to learn.
Current Canon cameras I believe are specified to a flash trigger voltage of 6V. I suppose that might have changed with the 450D Still, I would just find a cheap new flash rather than take the chance of eventually frying your camera.
it's too hard to judge how your gear is because we don't know what you do with it Don't fall into the digital "gear trap". Take photos and when you find your old gear is not up to the task buy new gear that meets your immediate needs. Don't put the cart before the horse.
I used to have tons of gear and was a bit of a gear head but have since pared down to what I really need, which is essentially one body and two good lenses, plus a few bits'n'pieces.
Your gear sounds good to me. As others have said, the 50mm 1.8 would be a fun addition. I would suggest adding PS Elements to your gear, run through online Elements tutorials, shoot in RAW, and learn to process your shots (assuming you are not already doing this). Also participate in the assignments here on FM, it is a great way to learn and there are some great photogs there who will gladly help you.
the 430ex as well as any same make flash is the very best idea.. it was made to couple with your camera.. be safe and not sorry.. lenses are ok to switch... flashes... not a good idea i think.. whats the benifit anyhoo.
Still, I would just find a cheap new flash rather than take the chance of eventually frying your camera.