HELP with my flash please!!!

[KarenB]

Hi, I photographed an event today at a nursing home (as a volunteer). I use a Sony Alpha 350 and have a Sigma EF-500 DG Super flashgun. Now I am a total novice with flash so do be gentle! I have it set on TTL for ease of use. Direct flash is fine and producing good results, but in some scenarios I am getting harsh shadows. However, when trying to bounce (off the white ceiling) all shots were underexposed. So the shadows go but the pics are way too dark. What is going wrong? I wasn't that far from my subject. I must admit I'm finding it all a bit confusing so any advice will be gratefully received.

 

[Sylvester XxX]

Depending on how far the surface is you are bouncing on you may need to use flash exposure compensation.

 

[KarenB]

Oh right ... aaarrgghhh! I'm sure once I get to grips with it I'll be fine. I think practise is the key. Thanks.

 

[tdodd]

Karen, you might not be far from the subject but how far was the light from the flash having to bounce? What sort of bounce surface was it? What were your exposure settings for shutter speed, aperture, ISO, flash exposure compensation, and how bright was the room.

An unedited picture with EXIF intact will help diagnosis. Please see this thread - http://www.talkphotography.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=248705. It might help.

 

[HoppyUK]

Post a pic I'm sure there is a simple answer but it could be one of many!

 

[KarenB]

Thanks guys. I will try & post a pic later & obtain the settings, etc. Just a bit tied up right now ... not ignoring you! With your help I will get there...

 

[KarenB]

Just wanted to say thanks. Realised I wasn't using flash exposure compensation. Yes, I know, simple! But then I am new to flash lol! Anyway, took a few test images last night and think I've got it now! Am back at the care home to do some more photos next week, so let's see how that goes. Thanks...

 

[tdodd]

Glad you've found the problem and the solution. Good luck.