A flash unit for lighting photographs
Lighting can dramatically affect the outcome of a photograph. Mastering the techniques required to manipulate available light and flash units as well as controlling exposure can seem like a challenge. The Internet is a valuable resource and hosts a variety of useful tutorials which cover every aspect of lighting in photography.
Instructions
1. CreativePro.com has an extensive tutorial for photographic lighting, mainly highlighting available lighting techniques for those shooting outdoors. This tutorial also introduces the reader to reflectors as well as money-saving tips for the budget photographer. There are example pictures using the techniques discussed for users to see how the different lighting methods can affect the outcome of a picture.
http://www.creativepro.com/article/photography-tutorial-get-right-light
2. Photo.net has a "Learn" section full of informative tutorials, including "Light" by professional photographer Philip Greenspun. There is an extensive guide to lighting within portrait and landscape photography, with example shots to inspire readers. The article also focuses on weather conditions, which can often provide problems for photographers. Fog, cloud and twilight lighting techniques make this tutorial suitable for those interested in outdoor photography, though there is a brief introduction to flash and studio lighting techniques.
http://photo.net/making-photographs/light
3. The Strobist blog is renowned for its "Lighting 101," a guide to every facet of flash and studio lighting. There are a wealth of money-saving tips, DIY equipment how-to guides, equipment reviews and in-depth analysis of the use of flash. "Lighting 102" is another article from the Strobist blog that focuses mainly on technique, including lighting angles, balancing light sources and colouring light. The main Strobist blog is regularly updated with new tips, reviews and guidance.
http://strobist.blogspot.com/
4. Cambridge in Colour describes itself as a "learning community for photographers" and features a number of in-depth tutorials on controlling light and exposure, as well as a two part guide about using a flash. The site is loaded with example shots and technical diagrams which convey the science behind taking a photograph, and help users analyse their technique. As well as other photographic guides there is a message board where users are encouraged to share advice and ask for help.
Metering and Exposure: http://www.cambridgeincolour.com/tutorials/camera-metering.htm
Flash: http://www.cambridgeincolour.com/tutorials/camera-flash.htm
5. Make Light Real is a website hosting an extensive four-part tutorial covering photographic lighting. Points of interest include light within wedding photography and the use and manipulation of multiple flash units. There is also a guide to matching artificial light with ambient light for the mastery of outdoor portrait photography, and insight into using color contrast within lighting techniques. There also are plenty of example shots from the tutorial's author himself.
http://makelightreal.com/photographic-lighting
Tags: lighting techniques, example shots, Strobist blog, affect outcome, cambridgeincolour tutorials, flash studio, flash studio lighting