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05/31/2003 01:11:25 PM · #1 |
I am wondering about shadows. Some thoughts...
I used a flash to obtain an intentional shadow and received the result I desired.(To a degree. Remember, I only have a low end camera.) I received a negative comment pertaining to this and now I am confused.
Is using a flash wrong? If the end result is what you are after, does it matter how you got there? I see it the same as someone commenting on my bad over-swing after I just hit one smack dab in the middle of the fairway about 275 yards. I would love to do everything tecnically right. But, unfortunately I am not there...yet. |
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05/31/2003 01:52:13 PM · #2 |
Originally posted by Marjo:
I am wondering about shadows. Some thoughts...
I used a flash to obtain an intentional shadow and received the result I desired.(To a degree. Remember, I only have a low end camera.) I received a negative comment pertaining to this and now I am confused.
Is using a flash wrong? If the end result is what you are after, does it matter how you got there? I see it the same as someone commenting on my bad over-swing after I just hit one smack dab in the middle of the fairway about 275 yards. I would love to do everything tecnically right. But, unfortunately I am not there...yet. |
I think if you got what you want, don't sweat it. If people are quick to point out that you used the flash, then it must be a little too obvious. Bottom line is if that's the way you want it, then do it that way. If they wanted it different, they can take the pictures themselves.
I use flash as little as possible, but sometimes it's absolutely necessary. The biggest trick is to make it not LOOK like you used the flash. I used the flash in this picture Cornered and no one knew. That's how it got so blue. The natural light ones were a little yellower. I don't think one person even commented on using the flash, which was the way I wanted it. Good luck and take care. - Bob |
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05/31/2003 02:09:45 PM · #3 |
Most DPChallengers tend to frown upon the use of "straight-on" close-up flash. After the first couple of times getting bad comments/low scores for using the flash, I all but stopped using it. But when I do use the flash now, there are a couple of tricks I've learned to difuse it: 1). tape a piece of waxed paper over the flash 2). tape a small piece of white card stock underneath the flash, tipped upwards approx. 45 degrees from horizontal to bounce the light off the ceiling. Also try using other light sources, ie. clamp lights, trouble lights, desk lamps, natural sunlight, etc. to achieve the desired effect. You can also use reflectors such as white poster stock to bounce difused light on your subject. Lots of trial and error. Hope this helps.
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05/31/2003 06:07:43 PM · #4 |
Thanks to both of you for your responses. Great tips!
You know, I've been real quick to blame everything on my camera. I am finding out quickly that there are so many things I can do to improve my photo taking capabilities regardless of the type camera I'm using.
Thanks again for the help. |
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05/31/2003 07:12:38 PM · #5 |
Im in the same boat as orussell. I almost never use my flash, even at the expense of losing many shots due to low light conditions. The problem with straight on flash is that it tends to white-out and flatten the face of the subject, destorying contour shadows. Even if you have a pretty decent shot going on in terms of subject, composition, etc., with this type of lighting I think many viewers subconsciously associate it with every other point-and-shoot shot they've taken with a disposable and so it is thus: 'amateur'.
If you have a hand held flash that you can stick out to the side via your outstretched arm, its better, because then at least you can get those shadows that produce contour and a 3 dimensional feel in your subjects. Waxed paper as a diffusion technique is a pretty good idea. Ill have to try that out...
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05/31/2003 11:20:21 PM · #6 |
| One of my photos came first that I used a flash for - 'Out of the Blue' and 'Pretty Lady' came third. Then there was 'Once it was used' that came 5th. All of which I had to use a flash to get the desired effect. Personally I don't like to use a flash as a rule. I was told by a professional photographer that one can use some coloured paper or plastic over the flash, but I haven't tried that one yet. |
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06/01/2003 12:42:16 AM · #7 |
Hi Marjo, I checked your profile and found 2 photos. Neither did I find someone commented on your use of flash? I understand about the comments placed by members on the use of flash on some photos (not yours) and I myself have placed some comments regarding the poor use of flash, but those are only when the flash created flares or glares that really make the photo look poor. I dont think the use of flash is bad. I think it's bad only when used poorly.
Personally if you check my profile, I've also received "bad" comments on my use of flash, but that would not make me shun the use of flash. I will still use it, but will be more careful in it's use. With the correct control, I'm sure the use of flash can be rewarding as well. |
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