Using Flash without It Looking Like a Deer in Headlights

Many times your camera flash can be used for more reasons than one. And at the top of the list, it’s getting that lighting perfected from every angle. With that being said, flash on cameras can be used in more ways than one, some for the positive and some for the negative. And if you don’t get it right on the first instance, it’s a regret that you’ll have to live for years. And remember one wrong wedding or celebratory picture where you appear as a deer caught in headlights is surely not appreciated by many.

So what’s the secret to using flash the right way? In case you’re wondering just that, here are the top tips being used by expert photographers across the globe.

 The evolution of the bounce flash

The bounce flash is the name given to a technique where a camera flash is used in a manner that makes the image appear softened, right before the flash strikes the subject.

The purpose of bounce flash

Your flash should never be pointed in a manner that makes it appear directing towards the subject in question. There are two reasons why photographers prefer to use bounce flash techniques. Firstly, the light emitted from a flash is hard, causing a terrible shadow to be casted over your subject. Secondly, when the direct flash technique is used, the image produced is surrounded by flat lighting. And that is the unattractive deer in headlights appearance that gives you a flat photograph.

Which direction to aim your flash at

Many professional photographers in today’s time are making use of the technique where they use ceilings or walls, usually white toned, to avoid any hue being casted into the light source. Aiming the flash upwards is a good idea as is the technique of pointing the flash to the side. Aiming it on the subject’s nose does do wonders at times so experiment as per need.

Avoiding that deer in headlights outlook

Just because the flash has been invented doesn’t mean it’s an absolute necessity to make use of. Get your photography game strong this season by making use of a number of different equipment, similar to the manner in which the professionals do.

We’re talking stocking up on speed lights that give you the flexibility to tilt as well as swivel that camera head of yours. Remember, the Canon 430EX and Nikon SB900 is ideal for portrait shoots that need flash.

Get your camera settings on point

The auto TTL camera setting system is great for those that enjoy working in manual mode. And just in case your subject is light and your background is dark, use a wider aperture and lower your shutter speed.

The use of the plastic diffuser on your flas

As a photographer, you may have come across the term of a plastic diffuser being put on top of the flash. The main purpose of doing all this is to allow your flash light to spread in a number of different directions. It works for all top professionals in the business so giving it a try wouldn’t harm you.