All light can be your friend, it is merely a matter of learning how to use it and use it well.
In this case it is one huge window. It could be a flash though. Available light does not mean only natural or ambient light.
The same light source can be used to create totally different moods, as evidenced in these photos Rachel took of Gemma, same spot, same time, two totally different approaches.
image information: Nikon D3 with Nikkor 50mm f/1.4G lens
{Left} ISO 800 ~ 1/160s ~ f/1.6 {Right} ISO 800 ~ 1/200s ~ f/1.6
Last week we asked if you could identify the images where flash was used. Some picked one or the other, but no one got the correct answer for both…
Both of these images above were shot with bounced flash.
Flash does not have to be harsh…it can be soft and full of light.
If you have a flash, there is light available to you whenever you need it.
{ 20 comments… read them below or add one }
How do you meter for a photo such as the backlit example? Do you spot meter on Gemma, and bring back any blown-out bits with something like a curves layer?
this website is amazing. I am blown away already.
Any tips for using a flash in this type of scenario if the wall/surface to bounce the flash from wasn’t white?
I have a question about the flash light. When I use it, I have yellow tones, rather than the white tones that these photos have here. what am I doing wrong?
Love this website! Thank you so much for the time and work you are putting in to provide this to us!
I do have a flash. I guess i should try and use it more.
I agree with Bailey. I am totally grateful that i found this site
I am loving this site so much already! I only have my on-camera flash at the moment and am trying to find ways to diffuse the light from it as at this time of year it’s impossible to get any decent pics of my kids in my dull house without it. I’d love to hear any tips you might have for that!
Beautiful post.
Seriously, this website is quickly becoming one of my favorites. I would never have guessed that either of those used flash. I can’t wait to see the tips you post down the road!
Loving this blog too! Would LOVE some tips on using flash.. I have an SB600 & I do not get results like that!! No clue where to begin!
I would never have guessed those two. I’ve always thought flash was quite harsh, but clearly not when bounced.
Love! ♥
I have AWFUL trouble with bouncing flash, it never works properly and always has horrible shadows behind that just look plain ugly!!
ANY ideas that would help would be so appreciated!!
I love this blog its awesome!
Thank you for sharing;)
I’m with Tatyanna…what is your white balance method when using flash….I can’t seem to hit it spot on
ok…. this has convinced me to purchase a flash! thanks
I would love to hear tips about using the flash..I have a sb600 but rarely used it because I dont know how to use it actually:D
Really awesome blog, I come everyday to check new post here!
I am shooting with a canon rebel XT and I would love to know what a good flas would be. I shoot my kids close up and playing outside mostly…Please help the camera guys at the store did not help AT ALL. Something in the mid range until I can upgrade my camera
Hi. Loving your site and have linked to it from my blog http://www.chickiesblog.blogspot.com! Want to win cool stuff now so pick me random picker, pick me!!!!
Doh!!! Competition ended and I missed the hypen out of my blog address (this one is right). Going for a lie down before I get myself even more confused!!1
Love these. I have the same yellow and green tile in my bathroom!!! So surprised to see it!!!
The one on the right (close up in sink) is my favorite. It has a vintage look to it that I love, kudos to the photographer!