Basics of Flash Photography

Class Preview

Let Santa Fe instructor Rick Allred shed light on how to use your flash like a pro, for natural, beautiful results that will set your photos apart.

Introduction to Flash

Meet Rick Allred, an instructor at Santa Fe Photographic Workshops and your guide to the basics of flash photography. Then get started! Rick begins by defining what a flash is, when and where to use it and the different types of flashes you may encounter.

Controlling Your Flash

A bright flash of light isn’t the easiest thing to control. Rick demystifies the process, showing you which camera features affect flash strength — and which don’t. He also demonstrates how to determine subject distance manually using guide numbers and with a flash meter.

The Power of Your Flash

You don’t need to be a mathematician to calculate flash power. Instead, discover Rick’s simple method of using guide numbers to get the best results every time. In addition, learn how to create your own flash cheat sheet so you can focus on your subject, rather than long division.

Bounce Flash

Want to give your images a softer look? Rick shows you how with his tried-and-true bounce flash techniques! You’ll also learn how to adjust your flash cheat sheet for bounce flash and see how white balance and location can affect your flash photography shots.

Flash Indoors

Discover how to effectively use your flash indoors. Rick shows how to correctly balance the light coming in from a bright picture window and explains why some photos end up marred by an unsightly black line. Plus, learn the basics of TTL metering.

Flash Outdoors

A flash may seem unnecessary when shooting outdoors. But as Rick explains in this lesson, sunlight doesn’t always make a photographer’s job easier. Watch as he shows how to shoot a subject in shade with a light background and how to use a flash as a fill for dark shadows.

Using Flash Creatively

Mastered the basics? Now get creative! Rick shows you how to capture stunning imagery using a handheld flash and timer. In addition, find out how to avoid common mistakes — or purposefully use them to create striking effects.