Flash photography basics

E

E.M.P.

Suspended / Banned
Messages
136
Edit My Images
Yes
Hi,

I picked up my first DSLR camera just over 6 months ago. Since then I have taken almost every oportunity to "get out there" and practice. Until now I have always worked with natural light and it seems quite straightforward.

I recently invested in a TTFL flashlight for my Canon 550D and to be honest the whole concept of flash photography confuses me. Some pictures it will improve the look of them. Some make no difference and some end up looking worse than using no flash. Is there any basic pointers for understanding when, and when not to use the flash.

I have read that even in bright light the flash can be used as a fill in. Obviously in poorly lit areas the flash has its uses, but today when I was in a poorly lit area I still got better results with using what natural light was available but on a slower shutter speed.

If someone could explain the whole flash photography principles that would be great, and also a big help to understanding the concept of it all.

Thank you
 
I tried it in AV, TV and full manual modes. AV seems to give the best result, but only when there is enough ambient light to get a high enough shutter speed as I believe the flash only works as a fill in with AV mode.

The other settings improved some images but made others worse. I was not boucning the flash as it was a big room (small aircraft hanger size) so no low enough ceilings or anything to bounce from.
 
As a photographer, you need to learn how light plays on subjects, what you're seeing is not inherently from flash, but from a small bright light pointed at your subject from the top of your camera. That's generally not a great looking light. Look at the link Richard posted, buy the speed lighters handbook by Syl Arena, experiment with bouncing your flash to start with.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top