Off-Camera Flash Techniques for Digital Photographers by Neil van Niekerk (April 1 2011)

Rather than focusing on the gear needed to use off-camera flash, this specialized resource hones in on the techniques needed--addressing photographers' most common questions and providing practical examples of off-camera flash used on real assignments. Seeking to address the various challenges of off-camera lighting, professional photographers and advanced amateurs alike will find a range of confidence-building instruction, beginning with basic how's and why's of lighting for creative effect, the types of equipment available and instruction about their proper use, clear definitions of various technical concepts such as managing shutter speed and controlling flash exposure, using ambient light as well as natural sunlight during a shoot, and incorporating off-camera flash into a portrait session. Concluding this lesson plan is a look at five different real-life photo sessions, each employing a different flash technique. Here, photographers get a deeper understanding of each concept put into practice, marrying the elements of lighting with the natural elements presented by the shoot.