Shedding Light on Flash: Beyond the Harsh Pop

If you've been following our exploration of light in photography (and if not, be sure to check out our post "On Light"!), you know that understanding the quantity of light available is fundamental. Photographing in low-light situations presents unique challenges, often pushing the limits of our equipment and skills. This naturally leads us to the topic of flash photography. While the concept isn't new – imagine photographers of the 1800s igniting volatile chemicals for a burst of illumination! – thankfully, the technology has evolved significantly.

However, even with modern advancements, not all flash produces aesthetically pleasing results. In my experience, there's a distinct divide: flash equipment that creates beautiful light and flash equipment that... well, doesn't. Often, the built-in or basic on-camera flash falls into the latter category. While it fulfills its primary function of adding light for exposure, it doesn't inherently guarantee a visually appealing outcome. So, if you're venturing into flash photography, it's wise to temper your initial expectations.

That being said, your camera's flash can be a valuable tool. Let's break down the two common types you'll encounter: the built-in flash, which pops up directly from your camera body, and the on-camera flash, which slides into the hot-shoe mount on top. Both are typically small and, in my opinion, positioned in a less-than-ideal location for flattering light.

When either of these small flashes is used as the main light source, directly illuminating your scene, the result often screams "flash photo" – a look characterized by harsh, flat lighting that documents the scene without capturing any real visual artistry.

However, the magic happens when you learn to use your built-in or on-camera flash in conjunction with the existing ambient light. This combination can produce surprisingly beautiful results – a technique I wholeheartedly endorse. Let me show you how... (And if you're new to understanding exposure modes, our Photography 1 course at https://www.c1mpa.com/photography-the-basics provides the essential foundation!)

Read it here: https://www.c1macademy.com/making-flash-work-for-you.html