Flash photography can be an intimidating subject for many amateur photographers. The thought of using flash bulbs, setting up lighting, and figuring out all the technical aspects of flash photography can be daunting. However, with the right information and a little practice, anyone can get started with flash photography and create stunning images. In this blog post, we will cover some of the basics of flash photography that you may wish you had known before starting out.
Understand the Basics of Flash Photography
Flash photography is all about using a burst of light to illuminate a subject. This burst of light is produced by a flash unit, whether it be a built-in flash on your DSLR or an external flash unit. The key to successful flash photography is understanding how your camera and flash unit work together to create the image.
Set Your Camera for Flash Photography
When using a DSLR for flash photography, you need to set your camera to the appropriate mode. The two main modes to use for flash photography are Fill Flash and Flash Exposure Compensation (FEC). Fill Flash is used to provide additional light when shooting in a dark environment, while FEC adjusts the strength of the flash. It’s important to adjust your shutter speed and aperture to match the flash output and ambient light.
Master Flash Exposure Lock (FE-L)
One of the most important features of any DSLR for flash photography is Flash Exposure Lock (FE-L). This feature allows you to lock in the correct exposure for your subject before taking the shot. By holding down the FE-L button and aiming your camera at your subject, you can lock in the exposure, even if they move around. This ensures that your subject will be properly exposed, regardless of their movement.
Use Fill Flash Effectively
Fill Flash is a great way to add extra light to your subject when shooting in dimly lit environments. It can help balance out shadows and provide a more flattering look to your subject’s face. When using Fill Flash, it’s important to adjust the strength of the flash to match the ambient light. Otherwise, you risk overpowering the existing light or causing too much light pollution.
Practice Your Flash Technique
Like any other skill, practice makes perfect when it comes to flash photography. Practice shooting in various environments and settings to perfect your technique. Shoot with friends or family members to get practice using flash in social settings. Join local photo clubs or take a class in flash photography to learn from other experienced photographers.
In conclusion, flash photography can be an intimidating subject, but with the right information and practice, anyone can master it. Remember to understand the basics, set your camera for flash photography, master Flash Exposure Lock (FE-L), use Fill Flash effectively, and practice your technique often. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating stunning flash photography images.
