The latest 320EX and 270EX II Canon flashguns provide both on or off-camera flash and the EX320 is the first Speedlite to offer a video lighting function

Canon announces the launch of the latest Speedlite 320EX and Speedlite 270EX II flashguns. Designed for EOS DSLR owners looking to employ creative lighting techniques, these flash guns provide a compact solution able to offer versatile and powerful performance.

The Speedlite 270EX II replaces the Speedlite 270EX at the entry level of Canon’s Speedlite range, while the Speedlite 320EX is a compact, powerful and versatile flash for users of mid-level cameras who want to take more control over lighting. Both new models are compatible with Canon’s distance-linked E-TTL II (Electronic Through The Lens II) system, and can be used either on-camera or as a slave units controlled by a separate master unit or the Integrated Speedlite Transmitter (as found in the Canon EOS 600D, 60D and 7D).

The Canon Speedlite 270EX II, available from March priced £180, has a guide number (GN) of 27 (m at ISO 100) and fast recycling between shots. Flash settings can be manually controlled and the manual bounce flash head can be utilised for different effects, as well as a zoom head that ensures efficient light distribution. The Speedlite 270EX II also launches with additional slave capability for creative off-camera use. A new Remote Release function also wirelessly triggers the shutter release on a compatible Canon EOS DSLR, allowing users to set up lighting without having to make repeat trips to the camera.

The Canon Speedlite 320EX, available from march priced £250, offers a guide number (GN) of 32 (m/ISO 100), as well as the ability to change the flash coverage from 24mm to 50mm by manually extending or retracting the flash head. The flash head can also be rotated for more flexible bounce flash shooting. The Speedlite 320EX’s slave utility allows it to be controlled by a master unit via one of four selectable channels. Flash group A, B or C can also be selected, controlling the relative power of the flash and the resulting lighting effect. As per the Speedlite 270EX above, the Speedlite 320EX also features the Remote Release functionality allowing users to trigger their camera from the flash. However, in a first for Canon Speedlite, the 320EX features a Video Light function, enabling users to illuminate low light scenes continuously when capturing HD video.

Key features of the Speedlite 270EX II

  • £180, available March 2011
  • Lightweight compact design
  • Guide Number 27 (m, ISO100)
  • Bounce flash head
  • Wireless slave function for off-camera flash
  • Trigger your EOS camera with Remote Release button
  • Variable angle of coverage
  • Fast, silent recycling

Key features of the Speedlite 320EX

  • £250, available March 2011
  • Guide Number 32 (m, ISO100)
  • Compact lightweight design
  • Bounce-and-swivel flash head, with 24mm and 50mm zoom settings
  • Integrated LED video light
  • Wireless slave for off-camera TTL flash
  • Remote Release button
  • Fast, silent recycling