Using a flash
Nov 5, 2012 11:54:07 #
As much as I dislike using a flash with photography there are times when it becomes necessary (like this time of year). Does anybody have a favorite procedure for using the flash without developing harsh shadows without stating the obvious; get the flash off the camera or don't use the flash? I thought this could be an interesting subject for general discussion. I presently shoot with a Nikon D 90 and my speed light is a SB600. Obviously this could very with the type of shot you're trying to get; I'm just referring to general shooting.
Good shooting
Good shooting
Nov 5, 2012 12:00:19 #
portcragin wrote:
As much as I dislike using a flash with photograph... (show quote)
Good question. Wish I had some more to offer, but getting the flash off the camera and bouncing it off with wall or using a diffuser is all I got. I did read recently that we should learn to use our flashes in manual mode more often. Position and strength of flash is key. A lot of people say they like to shoot in natural light, but I'm beginning to believe they just don't know how to use a flash. I do know that it takes a lot of practice to get it right. Interested to hear what others have to say.
Nov 5, 2012 12:34:02 #
Diffuser kits are commercially available to attach to your speedlight. These broaden the light source from point to 1/2-foot square, or so. This softens shadows, and preserves detail.
Several macro-photographers have built their own "soft boxes" to use over their speedlights. Very simple construction. Macro-photography is basically (insect) portraiture on a very small scale, through small apertures to maximize DoF.
Take a look here for ideas: http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-73918-1.html
Several macro-photographers have built their own "soft boxes" to use over their speedlights. Very simple construction. Macro-photography is basically (insect) portraiture on a very small scale, through small apertures to maximize DoF.
Take a look here for ideas: http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-73918-1.html
Nov 5, 2012 12:52:49 #
I am amazed, my guns range from £120 to £800 and I would never ever go out without one, from weddings to fill flash in daylight.
Though I never use direct flash that is what Stofens, lumiquest and the like are for.
Though I never use direct flash that is what Stofens, lumiquest and the like are for.
Nov 5, 2012 13:20:45 #
I do use a lightbox occasionally as a light source and have had good results. I have sold some camera equipment online and have had good result for that. I am a beleiver of "Keep it stupid simple" but not at the expense of a quality shot. Interesting subject......
http://www.adorama.com/VRDSB1616.html
Good shooting
http://www.adorama.com/VRDSB1616.html
Good shooting
Nov 6, 2012 06:58:40 #
With the right reflecting surface, i.e., white ceiling or wall -flash angled behind at 45 degrees and to your left or right. Try it. I like the results. Nothing else needed but shoe mounted flash.
Nov 6, 2012 07:08:14 #
portcragin wrote:
As much as I dislike using a flash with photograph... (show quote)
Play around with the flash compensation, I believe you can cut the power by 1/3 increments. Sometimes shadows are caused by too much flash.
Diffusion over the flash works to soften the harshness as well as using an Sync cord to move the flash off the hot shoe. You can either hold the flash or use a flash bracket.
Bounce flash: either off a white wall or an attachable reflector
Nov 6, 2012 15:23:08 #
portcragin wrote:
I do use a lightbox occasionally as a light source and have had good results. I have sold some camera equipment online and have had good result for that. I am a beleiver of "Keep it stupid simple" but not at the expense of a quality shot. Interesting subject......
http://www.adorama.com/VRDSB1616.html
Good shooting
http://www.adorama.com/VRDSB1616.html
Good shooting
The phrase is (Keep it Simple Stupid) or KISS! LOL just having fun portcragin. Just could not resist it.
Nov 6, 2013 08:09:00 #
sueyeisert
Loc: New Jersey
Look at Neil Van Nierkerk his website and books. And he has a course on Craftsy. I like his book On Camera Flash. He uses a black foamie thing to bounce flash.http://neilvn.com/tangents/
portcragin wrote:
As much as I dislike using a flash with photograph... (show quote)
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