Flash is widely used in photography. It is needed to create a powerful and mobile light source close to natural daylight. Using the flash, you can shoot a subject in a dark time, as well as experiment with lighting, creating highlights and shadows in the photo.
Knowing the basics of flash photography allows you to capture any fast-moving subject without blur and with good focal point, as well as taking pictures in the dark. Flash is also recommended for backlit shadow filling. It is good for taking pictures against the background of a window or other very light background.
Note that flash photography produces different results. For example, direct flash will create harsh harsh shadows, highlights on shiny surfaces, and a “cool” tint in a photograph. And with reflected, you get rid of glare and shadows, getting a warm and natural picture.
When using the flash, it is recommended to move it away from the camera. This will significantly reduce the risk of red-eye and create a more pleasing lighting effect. When using the flash, an umbrella can be used as a reflective and diffusing surface. To do this, unscrew the flash head and point it towards the umbrella (the opposite subject) to bounce the light towards the subject.
You can notice the difference in lighting when using the flash by aiming it toward the ceiling and walls. The disadvantages of a flash include a small illumination area and flat light, due to which you get scary, ugly shadows, red eyes and other imperfections in the picture.
To avoid them, practice different flash techniques. For example, you can use a "flash to the ceiling". This is one of the most popular techniques. But for this you need the ceiling to be white and not too high.
To compensate for the lack of reflected light from the ceiling, attach a white reflector the size of a playing card to the flash. It will direct some of the light onto the subject and reduce the density of shadows in the picture. In some models of cameras, a special visor has been developed for this purpose, which acts as a reflector. A mini soft-box for flash helps to achieve high-quality pictures at night. But the price of mini soft boxes is quite high.
With the built-in flash, you can attach a small mirror to it at an angle to diffuse the light. Shooting using direct flash light is advisable only as a last resort.