Using your flash - tips for great photography

I have some great flash equipment that I use with my DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) Nikon camera. Most smaller cameras have a built in flash, but these usually lack power so stick to using them close to your subject for best results, usually two to three metres, but not so close the image is over exposed. Most will have a 'red eye reduction' system either engaged at the time the picture is taken or in the software that came with the camera. The great thing about digital cameras is that you can review the image and try again, assuming your subject is prepared to try again too! As a professional photographer I not only have the advantage of some great and very powerful technology, but I still take lots of pictures and perhaps people are more prepared for it to take a little more time because, after all, they are paying for the service and want value for money.

The alternative to using flash is to increase the sensitivity or ISO on your images. The drawback here is that picture quality in terms of colour and graininess, although this can be seen as 'arty' especially if the image is turned into a black and white picture. This picture of Oona playing at Knowsley Hall is a case in point, I was there helping Oona with her harp and taking pictures of Oona playing. I was a long way away from the subjects and not using the flash because I did not want to be intrusive. Blur may also be  a problem with moving subjects like this bride.

Recently I photographed a christening and use the portable flash but off-camera on tripods and using reflective umbrellas. This is one of the big advantage of buying a DSLR because it gives you that expandable system of high quality and power flashes and lenses. Such system do come at a price but it is amazing how the entry level cameras are improving, taking on the attributes of the higher end professional cameras.

The bigger the flash the greater the reach and on a number of occasions having the extra power has made the difference. At a recent Charity Masquerade Ball in aid of the St Kentigern Hospice I was able to set up powerful studio flashes which gave almost total light control.

Next posts will look closer at 'red eye' and how to avoid it or deal with it afterwards, and then more about DSLRs an whether it is worth upgrading and the extra cost.