How to Learn Flash Photography

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Be sure that you have your flash manual.

   This will help you with items that you aren't familiar with.
   
   If you don't have it, try searching the Internet.
   
   You can probably find it. , This flashes when your front curtain is completely open.
   
   This is usually enough to do stop motion photography. ,, This is different things (acronyms) on different camera.
   
   You should know what your camera calls it. , This would be (usually),
   1.4, 2,
   3.5, etc.
   
   It will depend on your lens.
   
   This allows the most light into your camera. , Cloudy, filtered, sunny, etc.
   
   Write down all of the relevant information, if it will help. ,, You aren't trying for Ansel Adams here.
   
   You want to learn what your camera and flash will do under certain situations. , Know which of your notes/observations go with which image. ,,, Do not shoot at distances that will over or underexpose the shot.
   
   If a shot is overexposed, don't shoot closer to the subject unless the camera is set to a narrower aperture (i.e. larger f/number).
   
   If it is underexposed, don't shoot further from the subject unless the camera is set to a wider aperture (i.e. smaller f/number). , Use those settings as a guide for that particular environment. , Some that you will want to experiment with are:
   Low light Direct sunlight At night Sporting events Ceremonies Races
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   Step 2: Set your flash to Front Curtain Sync mode.

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   Step 3: Set your camera to its lowest ISO.

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   Step 4: Set your camera to Aperture Mode.

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   Step 5: Set your Fstop wide open.

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   Step 6: Note the conditions of the environment.

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   Step 7: Determine the distance of your subject from the camera.

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   Step 8: Take a shot.

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   Step 9: Be sure to note what the aperture setting

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    Step 10: shutter speed

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    Step 11: and your general thoughts about how the shot turned out.

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    Step 12: Look at your camera's histogram and see what your camera 'has to say' about how your shot turned out.

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    Step 13: Set the aperture at the next widest full stop and repeat the last few steps of noting what all is involved with the shot.

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    Step 14: Repeat all of the previous steps at about half the distance and twice the distance.

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    Step 15: Pick your best shots and what you did to get those shots.

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    Step 16: Repeat all of the steps under various lighting conditions.

Detailed Guide

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