Many people assume that flash is not needed for outdoor photography. However, portraits that are taken outside can benefit greatly from the use of fill flash. Whether you are attempting to capture candid portraits of an outdoor wedding or are taking outdoor portraits of the bridal party, a few simple tips can help you produce professional-looking photographs for the event.
Instructions
1. Familiarize yourself with the flash settings on the camera you are using to take the photographs. How many settings are there? You might need to check the handbook or instruction manual if you have any trouble locating and selecting the settings.
2. Check that you have extra batteries on hand for the day of the event. Using flash can use up the juice on batteries more quickly, and the last thing you want is for the camera to go out in the middle of capturing moments that cannot be re-created. Keep at least two extra sets ready to go with your equipment.
3. Set the flash setting to fill flash or manual on. You might have to scroll through a few settings to locate the right one.
4. Try to find a portrait location in the open shade that has an attractive backdrop. You might look for a spot under a large tree or in front of a pretty exterior wall.
5. Position yourself within at least eight feet of the portrait subject, whether it is just the couple or a whole group, if your camera has built-in digital flash. Larger group portraits might require some maneuvering to get everyone in the shot, but standing any further away might lead to you the light from the flash not reaching the subjects adequately.
6. Find your ideal shot, and begin taking pictures. The fill flash will provide front lighting for the portrait subjects, which will soften the textures in the photograph by filling in shadows and reducing the amount of contrast.
7. Try to extend the range of the flash a bit, if possible, by adjusting the ISO setting on the camera to 200. You might even consider adding an external flash unit to add even more range, although not all digital cameras are compatible with this.
Tags: fill flash