I explained previously how to make an exposure calculator, so here is the next step to using your flash on-camera effectively. No one likes having a strong flash blasting them while they are trying to enjoy a wedding or event, so here are a few tips to effectively bounce your flash and get great shots.
Snoot, not just a cartoon name
A snoot is a tube or piece of material that you can wrap around the head of your speed-light with one end sticking out past the end of the flash. Mine is simply some black cardboard taped together. This prevents blasting light into the eyes of unwary guests at an event, and it can also direct the light from your flash in a consistent fashion. Some of the very best event and wedding photographers use this technique to great effect. When bouncing your flash, the snoot can help you place your light effectively in the right places or at the very least, prevent guests from walking into things after being blinded by your light.
Try and get some ambient light in your shot
One of the bigger drawbacks of "point n' shoot" cameras is that when using the built in flash, it automatically adjusts all the settings so that only your principal subject is lit. If you have ever tried to take a picture at a concert you know that only the row in front of you gets lit by the flash. So, when using a DSLR, one technique to use is to try and get as much ambient light into your picture and then use your speed-light as an accent instead of the only light source. Then when you bounce your light, is is much more natural looking and less harsh.
Use the ceilings and walls effectively
A good event photographer finds the best places for photos in any venue. Depending on your comfort level with flash, you can use a wall, a ceiling or pretty much any surface to bounce your light. I like higher ceilings to get a specific look and feel to my photos, but a low ceiling room can often result in some fabulous shots, often with little effort from the photographer. Look for mirrors, solid colour walls or large windows to bounce your flash. Pretend that where your light will hit the wall is where you are placing a spotlight for your subject and make your adjustments accordingly.
Bouncing off of people
Sometimes you are in the thick of a crowd and you see that perfect candid shot. Use the back of a person nearby to bounce your light. With your snoot, aim directly at a white shirt or other material and shoot away. It truly makes a candid shot candid.
Standing strategically
Event shooting is both very easy and very difficult. There is less pressure to get staged shots but at the same time when people meet, they stand in a circle talking to one another. Unless you want half your shots to be of the backs of people's head, you will need to place yourself strategically for your shots. Earlier I said you should find the best places to bounce your lights. Take it a step further and find places where you can get the best shots of people as well. There are always a few at any venue. It may be a staircase or different level where you can stand and shoot above the crowd. It may be near the bar where people will turn and face one direction. Try and find the right combination so that you can discreetly take the photos you want, without interrupting the flow of the event.
That isn't always possible though. Sometimes you have to be involved and break open the knots of chatting people. Be polite and gregarious. People respond to a smiling photographer who takes a moment to see them as people instead of "just another shot". Many will turn and pose with friends. Some will not. Some it is more fun to surprise.
In the end, getting good shots for your client is what it is all about. If you can learn to bounce your flash where appropriate, you will go a long way further to better photos and happy (and repeat) customers.
Terry Davis - I am a Burnaby BC, Canada based freelance photographer and writer.
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