In photography, lighting is the main key to getting an extraordinary photograph. One of photography’s instrument that’s in very close relationship with lighting is the flash light. There are many ways to use flash to get maximal results in different lighting conditions. Several of these are:
Bounce Flash Technique (reflecting light)
The goal when using this technique is to reflect (bounce) light off of the flash onto a larger surface like ceilings or walls. By bouncing off light from the flash, the room’s lighting will spread more evenly and will appear softer. This technique is best used indoors with not-too-high ceilings.
Diffusing Light Technique (Scattering light)
The goal is the same as that of the bounce flash technique in that it’ll create a more even and softer lighting. By using a diffuser accessory for your external flash, you will be able to evenly distribute lighting to all directions. This technique is best used in a relatively small indoor space.
Off Shoe Camera Flash Technique (Strobist)
The goal of this technique is to produce lighting that will be directed towards a subject. For instance, when photographing people, proper use of this technique will result in a more dimensional photograph. To apply this technique, there needs to be a connected between the detached flash and the camera body. The connector can be, among others, cable sync flash or a wireless trigger. By having a connected, the camera can control a flash or several flashes arranged in groups. There are several mid-level DSLR cameras like the Nikon D90 and Olympus E-620 that has a built-in trigger so an added trigger is unnecessary. But usually there is a range disadvantage to this feature and can therefore be unreliable in some cases.
Direct Flash Technique
To apply this technique, you will need to direct the flash directly into the subject. The result of a direct flash is usually quite harsh, and therefore often avoided. But if bouncing or diffusing is not possible because of limitations of surroundings, then this may have to be a last resort.
As photographers we are required to be informed and able to choose different techniques as needed in different photographing circumstances and conditions to achieve the best results.
Experiment often, and you will soon enough master the different ways of applying these different techniques.
