Understanding Flash Photography

From a master of professional photography, a book that explores the exciting possibilities of artificial light. This guide to on- and off-camera flash picks up where Peterson's previous title, Understanding Exposure, left off--helping free photographers from the limitations of auto to get the images they want when natural light isn't enough. For the many amateur photographers afraid to venture past natural lighting, here is the book that will finally help them master artificial light. In his trademark easy-to-understand style, Bryan Peterson explains not only how flash works, but how to go beyond TTL automatic flash exposure to master manual flash, allowing readers to control the quality, shape and direction of light for a perfect exposure, every time.

This newly revised edition of Bryan Peterson's most popular book demystifies the complex concepts of exposure in photography, allowing readers to capture the images they want. Understanding Exposure has taught generations of photographers how to shoot the images they want by demystifying the complex concepts of exposure in photography. In this newly updated edition, veteran photographer Bryan Peterson explains the fundamentals of light, aperture, and shutter speed and how they interact with and influence one another. With an emphasis on finding the right exposure even in tricky situations, Understanding Exposure shows you how to get (or lose) sharpness and contrast in images, freeze action, and take the best meter readings, while also exploring filters, flash, and light. With all new images, as well as an expanded section on flash, tips for using colored gels, and advice on shooting star trails, this revised edition will clarify exposure for photographers of all levels.

If they aren't carrying much equipment and the natural lighting turns, photographers tend to reach for the on-camera flash button. These intense light sources can prove invaluable, but only if you know how to use them effectively. In the hands of an inexperienced photographer, on-camera flash will produce images with harsh shadows, washed out skin tones, cavernous black backgrounds and other unappealing visual characteristics. In On-Camera Flash the pitfalls photographers new to speedlights often encounter are outlined, ensuring readers can avoid them.

The ability of the digital camera to produce pictures under almost any lighting conditions has not led to the demise of the flashgun. A flash is still found built into every camera you can buy, and there is a healthy market in ever-more sophisticated accessory strobes. But the role of the flash has changed significantly in the digital era, and to achieve the best results, photographers need to re-learn when, and when not, to use this integral tool. Just as importantly, digital technology gives photographers the ability to review recorded pictures instantly, so advanced flash techniques that were once beyond the scope of all but the most dedicated professional can now be achieved with ease by anyone. Once you know what is possible, it is simply a matter of continuing to shoot, adjusting the settings until the desired effect is achieved. Mastering Digital Flash Photography explores these new possibilities in detail, and is the first book to explain how flash can be fully utilized by modern photographers of all skill levels.

Make a big impression with small flashes! In this book, Tilo Gockel shows you how to make magic by mastering the use of light. You will learn how to use speedlights to create amazing photographs in any lighting situation. Tilo uses 40 lighting workshops to teach his methods for producing impressive flash shots in portrait, fashion, macro, food, still life, and high-speed photography. The richly illustrated, easy-to-understand workshops are filled with recommendations and instructions for flash setups, detailed lighting diagrams, and tips and tricks for how to achieve the look of high-end studio shots using simple, accessible equipment, even in your own home. Also included is information on the settings that will help you master complex multi-flash situations, as well as tips on how to create cost-effective, self-built accessories. Foreword by Strobist.com's David Hobby.

Flash is a necessary and immensely creative tool that dramatically increases the opportunities of any amateur photographer. However, many amateurs find flash intimidating, unsure of where to begin. Instead, they continue limiting themselves to shooting only available light. Understanding Flash Photography is a guide to off-camera flash, helping free photographers from “auto” to get the images they want when natural light isn’t enough. If you’ve been afraid to venture past natural light, here is the book that will finally help you explore the exciting possibilities of artificial light. Author Bryan Peterson starts by breaking down how flash works, then dispels the widely held myth that automatic “TTL” flash exposure is easier, explaining how to quickly master manual flash exposure to control the quality, shape, and direction of light. For the hundreds of thousands who found Understanding Exposure an exciting tool in moving past “auto” exposure in available light, Understanding Flash Photography is the essential companion to mastering the often challenging exposure puzzle.