Tips for mothers on using external flash

Using an external flash can solve many problems related to built-in flashes and the way they sometimes ruin a perfect picture. Mothers would agree that there are times when their kids look extra-white, or the shadows are too stark for their liking when they use the flash light.

But if you wish to click some professional-looking pictures of your children, then using an external flash is a good idea. Don’t forget these simple tips which will help you use your external flash smoothly.

1. External flash should be compatible with your camera, and this can best achieved by using a flash of the same brand. For example, if you have a Canon camera, then an external Canon flash. However, this might cost you extra money, so you can look for cheaper brands that specify which cameras they are compatible with.

2. An external flash will only work properly if your shutter speed is right. Otherwise, if the exposure is for a longer time while the flash lights up an object only for a small period of time, then photo will not be lighted properly.

3. You can use bounce flash to soften the light coming from flash. This way the photo will not be too bright and harsh. Bounce flash are the ones with movement which allows you to tilt it away from the object in focus, mostly at 30, 45 or 60 degrees.

4. Diffused bounce flash creates an extremely soft and diffused image in which shadows are minimal. It not only bounces light off a white surface (usually white ceiling) on to the object but diffuses it too.

5. An external hand-held flashgun can also be used if you want to change the direction from which light is emitted. However, this will come in handy only if you are organizing a special photo-shoot for your children, or a family holiday photo. You will also need either a good spot to place the flashgun or someone to hold it while you click.