To Flash or Not to Flash – 5 Flash Photography Tips

Today’s blog will provide you with several tips on using flash while taking your photographs.  Considering that I am still learning the art of taking photos, the capabilities of the flash was of interest to me.  I feel the following tips will help any camera user understand how to use the camera’s flash whether shooting with a DSLR camera (with or without an external flash) or if shooting with a small compact camera or phone.  So here are my tips:

#1 – Fill Flash

Fill flash occurs when you tell your camera that you want to use the flash when there is daylight.  So take your flash off the auto setting and change it to “flash on”.  Having the camera set to auto flash in daylight will keep your flash off because the camera reads that there is enough light for the picture already. 

So if there is enough light, then why would we want more light?  Well this would be because the extra light will “fill-in” or eliminate the shadows on the people you are photographing.  Shadows can generally occur if you are taking a photo where the sunlight is behind the subject. 

#2 – Night Photography

When you are taking photos at night, you will want to set your camera setting to either “night portrait” or “slow sync” depending on the type of camera you have.  This will help coordinate your flash with the shutter in order to get a good exposure for your photo.  It’s basically going to slow your shutter which will allow for more light in the exposure. 

#3 – Pay Attention to the Background Area of Your Subject

Prior to taking your photograph you want to take note of the area behind your subject when using your flash.  This is because the light can bounce right back towards you and the camera which can cause the flash to be visible in your photo.  I have made this mistake in the past when shooting a subject in front of a glass window or a mirror so you will want to avoid any surface areas that can be reflective.

#4 – Diffuse the Light

Sometimes the flash can be too bright so it is a good idea to diffuse the light.  You can purchase an inexpensive diffuser for your flash or you can create your own with a simple piece of paper.  By covering your flash with either of the two you will soften the light which should eliminate any excessive brightness in your photo. 

#5 – Bounce the Light

Using this technique you will be able to lighten a larger area and provide a more subtle light source on your subject.  Try tilting your flash to the ceiling or maybe even a wall while taking your photograph.

These are just a sample of flash photography tips.  I would love to hear about any additional tips from you!