Flash Photography
March 31, 2008
Flash photography is probably the most disappointing technique for beginning photographers. The flash’s illumination is often too fast and it is hard to determine what the effects will be.
It’s OK not to expect to become an expert at flash photography, because it does involve a lot of trial and error, but be persistent and observe your results, because it will help you achieve the best results over time.
Flash photography has a very limited range so it should only be used when the subject is fairly close. Fill flash can be used to help lighten up a subject which is in deep shadow. To add fill flash to a photo just toggle the flash to go off when it normally would not be needed.
Try not to use flash indoors unless you really have to: it tends to “burn out” subjects and can create harsh shadows. Most photographers don’t use the built in flash that comes with cameras, but instead use an additional flash that mounts to the camera and can be pointed upwards to bounce the light.
Use fill flash when there’s enough light in the scene but your subject isn’t well lit.
If you’re using a Digital camera you should move close enough to the subject for the flash to be effective (no more than 10 feet away). Some digital cameras have accessory flashes or studio-type lighting.
If you’re indoors and want to cast light on a group of people for a portrait photo, you want to throw light into a room for an architectural photo, or you need to cast light on certain objects in a room that is too dark for a good exposure, then you probably shouldn’t hand-hold the camera or the photo will come out blurry. Most photographers simply use their flash bulb for these types of situations.
So if you’re using flash and want it to be effective then do not point it directly at a mirror or glass that will create a lens flare. Standing about four to ten feet away is the most effective distances. Try to make sure your main subjects are about the same distance away from the flash as each other or some that are closer to the flash will appear brighter than ones that are farther away.
The best thing to do is practice using flash even when it is not needed and pay attention to your results. Doing this will help you become better at flash photography. Analyze your photos and try to figure out what you could have done differently in order to create a better flash-filled exposure.
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Posted in Beginning Photography Tips, Flash Photography
