Despres Photography

Posts Tagged ‘flash’

Should I buy an external flash to use it inside if I'm using two umbrellas?

I'm a beginner in photography and I don't have a lot of money for now. I'm always taking pictures of my friends and I thought that it would be nice to buy the studio kit with two backgrounds (black & white) and two umbrellas, but I only have the money for one item. An external flash or the kit.

Start with a flash.

Of course the best way to spend your money in photography depends on what you are planning to do, and what equipment you already have. Studio lighting can sometimes pose a challenge. I am usually into naturalistic lighting, unless I am going for a specific effect. But if you go with backgrounds and umbrellas, you're going to need appropriate lights for that too. Studio flashes are very expensive, whereas "hotlights" are somewhat expensive, literally hot, and generally unpleasant to work with.

I've done most of my portraits with my camera and an external flash. You can view my portrait gallery at www.jayratch.com/portraits, and while you really can't tell that there was flash in any of them, almost every one used my external flash to produce balanced fill.

If your camera has a very good built in flash, an external flash might not really be necessary right now. It would help to know what type of camera you are working with. But, most amateur SLRs from Nikon and Canon have fairly good flashes built in, and that would make a simple external a waste of money... for now. Where are you buying this studio kit? I "bought" my first studio kit by scavenging. Backgrounds were leftover drapery fabrics (which you can buy at a fabric store for about $5 per linear yard, which with minimal sewing would make you a huge drapable backdrop for about $15) and lights were clip-on worklights ($15 at Home Depot, with outdoor flood bulbs.). Stands are the bigger challenge, but they aren't very expensive to begin with; but again, you can often save money by obtaining something that was not intended for photography or building it yourself. The only piece of studio equipment that "must" be proper is the tripod, although even there you have, as a beginner, plenty of room to skimp, starting with garage sales and eBay.

So if you can forgive the rambling answer, I'm not sure that you need to be spending a lot on either of these items. In a strict either or choice, I would get the flash, hands down, because it will be useful under a far wider range of circumstances. Get the one that goes with your camera properly and that will still meet your needs in at least two years (and, will actually be a worthy upgrade from your on-camera flash.). Of course bounce will be the main benefit, so don't even think about a flash that doesn't easily bounce. Do not get a generic or off-brand flash; if it's not either the brand of your camera or possibly Sunpak, don't get it.

Westcott Ultimate Flash Kit Review

Mastering Digital Flash Photography $27.95 Electronic flash not only brings light to a photograph, it can be an important artistic tool-if youve acquired the knowledge to use it creatively. To master those skills, digital photographers need only turn to this complete reference. Packed with inspirational photos, it takes the mystery out of flash, covering every type of equipment and explaining such essentials as guide numbers, sync speeds, white balance, and more. Photographers will see how fill flash can decrease contrast and shadows in outdoor portrait photography, understand how to control the light using bounce and multiple flash techniques, and expertly employ high-speed and rear curtain synchronization to create impressive motion-blur images. Everything you need to know is here—including a section on studio flash and computer processing.

Seattle Photography Tour $90 Spend a day exploring Seattle as you visit selected key places that will help you learn about composition for making more dramatic and artistic photos.With this walking photography tour of Seattle, you'll roam in and around the famous Pike Place Market, waterfront and Belltown neighborhood where we will talk about the ins and outs of flash photography.You'll learn about "depth of field" and "shutter speeds", so you can capture that just right moment. Whether a novice or an expert, take this tour and experience Seattle through the eyes of a native Seattleite and learn the basics of photography or fine-tune your existing skills.

On Photography $19.95 First published in 1973, this is a study of the force of photographic images, which are continually inserted between experience and reality....

Canon Speedlite 270EX II Flash $199.99 Enhance your DSLR shooting capabilities with the new, ultra-lightweight Canon Speedlite 270EX II. This compact, high-performance flash is designed for fun and easy flash shooting. Easy to use, the Speedlite 270EX II Flash's Tele/Wide feature effortlessly allows you to adjust the illumination angle and guide number to match each scene for a perfect, well-balanced photo every time. When used with select Canon EOS DSLR cameras that have a master function, the Speedlite 270EX II can be used as a versatile wireless slave flash. This Speedlite can also be used with other compact digital camera models equipped with a dedicated flash shoe mount. Shine a little light on your photography with the Canon Speedlite 270EX II Flash. UPC: 13803135268 Manufacturer's Part Number: 5247B002

Canon Speedlite 320EX Attachable Flash $299.99 In a first for Canon Speedlites, the versatile new Speedlite 320EX features an LED light on the front of the flash body that can be used to illuminate nearby subjects in dim light. The light is ideal for video recording but can also be used as a modeling light or as an AF assist beam during Live View shooting. The perfect camera accessory , when used with EOS DSLRs that have integrated Speedlite transmitters, the Speedlite 320EX can be used as a wireless slave unit positioned off-camera. A flash release function further facilitates wireless flash shooting by enabling the shutter to be released remotely from the Speedlite 320EX with a two-second delay, which gives the photographer time to re-aim the flash if necessary. For professional photographers and armatures alike, the Canon Speedlite 320EX Attachable Flash with enhance your Canon camera and extend your photography possibilities. UPC: 013803136678 Manufacturer's Part Number: 5246B002

Zeikos ZE-440EX Flash for Canon Digital SLR Cameras $61.49 Perfect for expanding your creative options on compact cameras and entry-level EOS DSLRs, Canon's Speedlite 270EX adds power and flexibility for enhanced flash photography anywhere. Light, compact and small enough to fit in your pocket, Speedlite 270EX features 2-step coverage for 28mm and 50mm focal lengths, plus a highly useful bounce-flash function for amazingly easy, polished results. Powered by 2 AA batteries (not included), Speedlite 270EX is easily set-up and controlled through your ca...

Sony HVL-HFL1 Flash/Video Light for Handycam Camcorders $98 Expand your camcorder's lighting possibilities with the HVL-HFL1 combination video light and flash from Sony. Just attach it to your compatible Handycam camcorder's accessory shoe and you get a powerful video light for shooting in dark situations and a flash for still photography. The HVL-HFL1 Auto Function feature automatically turns the video light on whenever the lighting is poor. It is powered by the camcorder, so there is no need for an external battery. A handy storage pouch is included...

Canon Speedlite 270EX Flash Light $170.99 0 m/72 ft at ISO 100 (28 mm Zoom-head Setting) 0 m/89 ft at ISO 100 (50 mm Zoom-head Setting) 1 x Hot Shoe 100 ms to 2.6 Second - Quick flash with AA-size Alkaline Batteries 100 ms to 3.9 Second - Normal flash with AA-size Alkaline Batteries 2 x AA Alkaline Supported 2.50" x 2.60" x 3" 27.60" to 51.50 ft with 28 mm100 - For normal 27.60" to 63 ft with 50 mm100 - For tele end 270EX 3806B002 5.10 lb 51.50 ft 63 ft Canon: EOS Cameras PowerShot G-series Cameras SX-series Cameraswa Perfect for expanding your creative options on compact cameras and entry-level EOS DSLRs, Canon's new Speedlite 270EX adds power and flexibility for enhanced flash photography anywhere. Light, compact and small enough to fit in your pocket. AF Assist Beam Cover Canon Canon, Inc E-TTL E-TTL II Flashlight Speedlite Speedlite 270EX Flash Light www.usa.canon.com

Canon Speedlite 270EX Flash for Canon Digital SLR Cameras $143.95 Perfect for expanding your creative options on compact cameras and entry-level EOS DSLRs, Canon's Speedlite 270EX adds power and flexibility for enhanced flash photography anywhere. Light, compact and small enough to fit in your pocket, Speedlite 270EX features 2-step coverage for 28mm and 50mm focal lengths, plus a highly useful bounce-flash function for amazingly easy, polished results. Powered by 2 AA batteries (not included), Speedlite 270EX is easily set-up and controlled through your ca...

Retractable USB Data Cable for Samsung Focus Flash $12.99 Retractable Samsung Focus Flash USB Data Cable - This retractable USB data cable for your Samsung Focus Flash cell phone provides a link between your phone and PC for many data applications with the appropriate software. Use your cell phone as a wireless modem and connect to the Internet on your laptop for email and fax transmissions. Buy this quality data cable today and we'll ship it to your home or business for FREE! Wireless Emporium GUARANTEES your satisfaction on all of our quality cell phone data cables and connectivity kits. LIMITED SUPPLY - ORDER NOW! Software NOT included.

Canon Speedlite 430EX II Flash Light $314.99 1 Year 100 ms to 2 Second - AA-size Ni-MH batteries 100 ms to 3.7 Second - AA-size Alkaline Batteries 11.60 oz - Without Batteries 2.83" x 4.80" x 3.98" 24 mm to 105 mm Indicated by numerals on the LCD's focal length display 27.60" to 39.40 ft - For High sync speed (EF flash) 27.60" to 80 ft - For normal flash 2805B002 39.40 ft 4 x AA Alkaline Supported 4 x AA Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) Supported 43 m/141 ft at ISO 100 (105 mm Zoom-head Setting) 430EX II 80 ft All Canon EOS cameras PowerShot G series cameras Bringing a new level of versatility and capability to flash photography, the Speedlite 430EX II features a powerful flash (guide number of 141 ft./43m at ISO 100) with a fast recycling time in a compact, durable body. A one-touch quick-lock mechanism makes it easy to attach or detach the 430EX II from the camera and a metal foot has been added for strength and durability. Flash controls can now be set through the camera's LCD screen on compatible EOS Digital SLR cameras. The Speedlite 430EX II is also quieter, recycle time is 20% faster (as compared to the 430EX) and since it is compatible with Canon's wireless E-TTL, it can be used as an affordable "slave unit". AF Assist Beam Cover 9 Focusing Point Canon Canon, Inc E-TTL E-TTL II Flashlight Speedlite Speedlite 430EX II Flash Light TTL www.usa.canon.com

Adventure Medical Kits S.O.L. Thermal Bivvy $23.99 FEATURES of the S.O.L. Thermal Bivvy by Adventure Medical Roll-Down Closure Dry Bag Mini-Rescue Flash Mirror Heatsheets Survival Blanket Mini Rescue Howler Whistle Waterproof Matches Tinder-Quik Waterproof Tinder SPECIFICATIONS: Weight: 5.4 oz Dimensions: 3.75 in. x 6 in. x 1 in.

Sakar Digital Concepts 528AF TTL Flash for Pentax and Samsung Digital $35.49 Conventional photography is an impossibility without light. When there is insufficient or unsuitable light available to take a picture, it becomes essential to have a ready source of supplementary light to fulfill the need. The 952AF series flash units provide large quantities of light under the complete control of the photographer and his camera (Canon, Nikon, Olympus or Pentax).  Each is custom-designed and manufactured to compliment the capabilities of the camera for which i...

Underwater Photography $205 Bring home the amazing experiences of your scuba diving adventures by learning the art of underwater photography. This class will teach you the basics of shooting pictures underwater so you can share them with your family and friends. They say pictures are worth a thousand words, after completing this class you will be able to let your pictures speak for you!

Travel Photography $24.95 As we travel to new places, digital camera in hand, we all feel the desire to capture them forever in images the scenic vistas, the unique architecture, the people who inhabit that landscape. With this magnificent new study, award-winning National Geographic photographer Bob Krist can help us achieve our goal. Krist examines the technological aspects of shooting digitally on location, and explains how to select the right equipment, from cameras and lenses to flashes and tripods. He offers tips for saving, backing up, and sending images on the road, and gets to the heart of what it takes to portray the true spirit of your subject. He poses such questions as What makes a truly great photograph? How can you create a well-rounded portrait of a place through its geography, people, and culture? The answers are all illustrated with the author and 39;s collection of stunning travel photography to inspire us along the way.

Micro USB to USB Charging Data Cable for Samsung Focus Flash $9.99 Micro USB to USB Charging Data Cable for Samsung Focus Flash - The Micro USB to USB Charging Data Cable provides the ability to connect your device to your computer. Also allows you to charge your phone through any USB port.Buy this quality data cable today and we'll ship it to your home or business for FREE! Wireless Emporium GUARANTEES your satisfaction on all of our quality cell phone data cables and connectivity kits. LIMITED SUPPLY - ORDER NOW!

Evans Inked by Evans Photography Series Kick Drumhead $67.49 Evans Inked by Evans Photography Series Kick Drumhead

Private Photography Tutoring $230 Get out and capture the world with a top DC photographer who's images have appeared in over 100 publications, including Time Magazine, 30 magazine covers and 80 post cards.One on one photography lessons are catered towards areas and skills that you would like to develop.From beginner to advanced, learn the essentials, absorb an expert's philosophy and master your passion. In your private photography lessons, walk the streets of Washington, D.C. and find those perfect angles, the correct lighting and more so that your shots embrace the vision you desire.Tutoring can take place at a suitable architectural site, in a museum, or even over coffee at Starbucks. Subjects covered can include: General PhotographyUse of Your CameraF Stops and Shutter SpeedsArchitectural PhotographyPhotographing Artwork Inside Museums and GalleriesNightime PhotographyTravel PhotographyEvent PhotographyCareers in Photography

The Mountaineers Digital Photography Outdoors 2nd Edition $18.95 The Mountaineers Digital Photography Outdoors 2nd Edition