NEW Basic Assignment #6: Fill-in flash

@Miranda F: Not that I remember, but it has unfortunately gone in for a week or so since!

There has finally been a bit of sunshine here, so I've managed to try another attempt. Tried to use the flash to balance the overexposed area at the front and eliminate some of the shadows.

Without flash: A65 with Sigma 18-50mm f2.8 @ 1/1000s f/2.8 ISO100 50mm


With external flash: A65 with Sigma 18-50mm f2.8 @ 1/160s f/8 ISO100 50mm

Thanks for the tip Miranda. I'll give it a go!

@Blue-Eyed Monkey: Sorry for not commenting on your prior shot, Glen. I'm not sure how it slipped by me. It is the best of the three, but there are some obvious shadows from the flash that were not in the original. The assignment requirements are best met by using the same exposure settings as the non-flash version, but adding some manual flash to lighten the subject which may be backlit or in a shadow. You will probably do better with the subject further from the camera. There is a good example here.

Cheers... Brian

P.S. Looking forward to your next entry.

@Blue-Eyed Monkey: Glen, The Grumpy Fairy is a great subject for this assignment, but it appears as though the camera is making adjustments to the shutter speed and aperture when the flash is engaged. You may need to take the non-flash shot, then switch to manual mode and apply the same shooting parameters and take the shot again setting flash mode to "Fill" and flash compensation to -2. You may also be able to use AE lock in this instance to keep the same exposure settings on both shots. I hope this works. If not, I'll just have to pass you based on your persistence and positive attitude.

Unfortunately, the sun seems to have given up on the South East of England, only making the odd guest appearance, so chances for this assignment have been rather limited. I did head out again yesterday in between clouds however and have got another attempt!


35mm 1/160s @ f/7.1 ISO100 with Sigma 18-50mm f2.8 - No flash


35mm 1/160s @ f/8 ISO100 with Sigma 18-50mm f2.8 - With external flash, compensation -2.0 to eliminate the shadows on the rocks.

PS. Please don't go easy on me - I've realised quite how little I know when it comes to flash photography and enjoy the learning! I actually managed to get some decent shots of my son's birthday with the morning light blazing through the window and the flash bouncing off the ceiling to balance it out, so I really do appreciate your advice.

You are right; not the most exciting subject but glad to get a pass at last!

@Phil Wood: Another pass! Cheers... Brian