Better Photo Tips - Flash Points

By Tedric Garrison

When it comes to electronic flash, one of the most common problems people run into is: "red eye". At one time or another, we've all either done it or seen it. You know what I'm talking about; that cute little toddler picture with the innocent looking grin and those demon looking red eyes that remind you of something out of a horror movie.
What causes red eye is simple enough; the light from your flash is reflecting off the back of your subject's eye. This is usually because your flash is at the same level as the subject's eye. This most often happens with any type of camera that has a built in flash.
It is human nature when taking a photo of someone's face to look them in the eye. Most built in flashes are only about 1 inch or so above the viewfinder that you look into; so if you are looking them in the eye AND they are looking you in the eye it stands to reason the flash is only about 1 inch above their eye level (even if it is further away).
With a built in flash you have several options to avoid the dreaded "red eye".
A) Avoid being at the same exact level as the subject. Shoot your photo from slightly above the subject or from slightly below the subject.
B) Avoid being in a direct line with the subject. Similar to above; but here you the photographer move slightly to the left or to the right to take your photo. Do NOT have the subject look directly into the lens. Tell them to look just past one of your shoulders, instead.
C) Diffuse the flash itself. Use a tissue or a thin handkerchief over the flash so that it does not over whelm the photo.
The main reason professional photographers use a separate flash for their photos; either handle mount or on the camera's hot shoe, is because it gives them more options when making a photo. With a bigger flash you can still do all the options listed above, PLUS:
D) Most bigger flash units have a tilt or swing function that allows you to bounce the flash off either a wall or a ceiling. (This also diffuses the light in your photo).
E) Many of the bigger flash units that can swing all the way around are often aimed into an umbrella or reflector of some type, to reflect the light and make it less harsh.
F) Most bigger flash units have a power ratio setting that lets you shoot at 1/2, 1/4th, 1/8th, 1/16th power or even less. A slight burst often will fill in what you need without being so over whelming that it reflects back.
G) Many of the separate flash units can connect through PC jacks on the camera. Why is that an advantage? The light source can be 10 feet away at a totally different angle and often fitted with an umbrella as well.
H) Some flash units can be fitted with actual filters, either to effect light density or color.
When it comes to bouncing light, reflecting light, or using power ratios the key is always practice before you get into the situation that you have to use it. Bouncing the light off a 9 foot ceiling is totally different than bouncing it off a 15 foot ceiling. This is where having a separate flash meter comes in very handy.
Do yourself a favor and find out what works best for you. Keep it simple. Don't try to bounce your light, use a flash filter, AND shoot at 1/2 power. Electronic flash is a powerful ally and does not have to over power the shot. Think of it as a tool; and like any tool it depends on how you use it that determines if it is helpful or not in taking better photos.
Award winning writer / photographer Tedric Garrison has 30 years experience in photography. As a Graphic Art Major, he has a unique perspective on the Elements of Design and how they relate to photography. His photo eBook; Finding Your Creative Edge in Photography, proves creativity CAN be taught. Tedric shares his wealth of knowledge with the world, at: Better Photo Tips.com
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