Lighting Accessories!

I understand most of you have a general grasp on lighting your subject and scene, know how to control exposure. But sometimes in situations like documenting events, you can't quite get that flash off camera. Here are some ideas for taking it to the next level of light control while still on your camera.

-Go ahead and check out the 80/20 bounce accessory. Direct flash is generally nasty and unflattering (use only in the most extreme circumstances!) and when you aim the flash up towards the ceiling, you get a very direct overhead lighting with deep shadows under all of there features (a lot less unflattering than direct flash). The 80/20 bounce made by Lumiquest directs 80% of light up towards the ceiling and 20% towards there face to fill in the shadows made by the bounce flash.

Direct Flash

With the 80/20 Bounce

It might seem a little pricey at around $30, But I've seen a great improvement in the quality of my photos in tight situations, and when your dealing with demanding clients, you can't skimp on quality.

Check out these sights for hot shoe flash accessories that can be used when it is on and off camera!

-LumiQuest
-Honl

or check out the blog by Joe McNally which is filled with posts about situations in the field, lighting tips, and stories.

-Joe's Blog
-The Quintessential Hot Shoe Flash Book