| Although flashes are just one type of photography | | | | person-shaped shadow on the wall. Lastly, you should |
| light, they are also one of the most common. Nearly | | | | use more than one light source. The more |
| all cameras these days have a built in flash and most | | | | photography lights that you have, the more flexible |
| professional photographers use a flash regularly for | | | | your light becomes. |
| their work. Just like cameras, flashes vary significantly | | | | The Camera Flash |
| in their construction, functionality and accessories. | | | | Many cameras are built right into the camera and |
| Here's a breakdown on how to get the most out of | | | | work on an automated basis. While this is certainly |
| your flash. | | | | excellent in terms of convenience and cost, |
| The Studio Flash | | | | automatic flash is often responsible for terrible |
| These are the flashes you commonly see on fashion | | | | photographs. However, there will be times when the |
| shoots. They're more powerful than traditional | | | | lighting is poor, and you simply can't use studio lights |
| in-camera lights, held in place by light stands, and | | | | (for example at weddings). |
| need an external power supply. Studio flashes are | | | | Just like using a studio flash, you'll want to bounce |
| some of the most versatile in terms of photography | | | | your flash if at all possible so that it's less harsh. |
| lights; you can move them around an area and adjust | | | | Though this may sound weird, think of the many |
| their output and duration for total control of the final | | | | things around you that can work as impromptu light |
| image. | | | | reflectors - tablecloths, walls, ceilings, and menus will |
| First of all, make sure that your flash is firing into a | | | | all work nicely. Additionally, never rely on flash as the |
| light umbrella or some other type of diffusing | | | | only light source. The best time to use a flash is to |
| contraption. A direct flash will usually overpower your | | | | use it to fill in the dark spots and augment the |
| subject so it's better to use a couple of reflectors | | | | current light that you have. And don't forget that |
| and umbrellas to bounce light off your subject. With | | | | your flash has an effective range so if your subject |
| studio flashes they usually have a "modeling" light that | | | | is too far away your photo will be underexposed. |
| will let you see the result from your setup so you | | | | Flash photography is a complex subject and requires |
| should be able to map out your light pretty well. | | | | many years of practice to completely master. If |
| Also, keep your subject away from the backdrop to | | | | you're looking to take your photography to the next |
| prevent sharp shadows from showing up in the | | | | level, you should consider adding some photography |
| image. You've probably seen this effect in | | | | lights to your "photo toolbox." With the right setup |
| photographs that were shot with a digital camera - | | | | and knowledge, every photograph can be a |
| because the flash is dead center it casts a | | | | masterpiece. |