why is it better to have an external flash?

[JaackBrown]

Apart from the reason that they dont alway need to be on the camera to use, whats better about them than the built in flash?

 

[jacob12_1993]

Number one reason is that for anything more than fast run and gun lighting, on-camera flash is the worst possible option

 

[viewfromthenorth]

More power, you can often rotate the head, angle it to bounce the light, you can add light modifiers, control them remotely (often in multiples if required) and doubtless many other reasons.

 

[Gupster]

Apart from the reason that they dont alway need to be on the camera to use, whats better about them than the built in flash?

Generally they're a lot more powerful than the built in flash. They'll also have a better refresh rate (depending on model), it's easier to adjust the power setting and they're a fair bit more adjustable in terms of the direction of the head among many other things

If you considering getting one you'll always be able to pick up a cheap one from the classifieds on here or on ebay. I started of with none and stayed like that for a few years as i was only really doing landscapes. Now i've got 4 with associated gubbins and actually get to use them in some landscapes occasionally.

It's certainly worth having one in the bag and do a bit of experimenting with it. Youtube is a great resource for help and ideas.

Mark

 

[itsdavedotnet]

They're also higher up, so don't ask a shadow if you're using a biggish lens.

They also recycle much faster, and can flag in a burst

 

[Phil Young]

Took this yesterday - wanted to control the light myself so this was lit with a jessops flash gun, off camera on a stand with a shoot-through brolly. After that shot, I just walked elsewhere with it as there are no power cables I always prefer them to using mains flash units.

 

[omens]

A flash above the camera (either on-board or external), pointed directly at the subject will produce unflattering light. If the flash can be pointed away from the subject or removed to off-axis, it will produce more interesting photos. As Syl Arena says, "to produce interesting light, you need to create interesting shadows".

People recommend the book but I found youtube videos online more interesting. Just search for Syl Arena.