Photography Paper 3 May/June 2023

Question 4:    

  • What is flash photography?
  • List the three flash techniques.
  • Explain the processes of using the flash techniques listed in 4(b).
  • State any three advantages of using flash in photography.
  • State any two ways of compensating for inadequate light when taking a photograph.

 

This question was well answered by candidates. Their performance was satisfactory. Candidates were expected to provide the following points:

(a)        -           Flash photography involves the use of artificial light to illuminate
subjects/objects when taking a photograph.
(b)        -           Bounce flash technique.
-           Diffuse flash technique.
-           Direct flash technique.
-           Open flash technique.
                       
(c)        (i)         Bounce flash technique
-           The flash head is mounted on a stand/or camera and connected through
hot shoe, remote or cable.

  • The flash head is then directed towards a white

surface. e.g. ceiling/wall, umbrella, or white card.
-           The white surface reflects the light to illuminate the object/subject producing very soft light which reduces/eliminates shadow.

            (ii)        Diffuse flash technique
-           The flash head is mounted on a stand/camera and connected through hot shoe, remote or cable

  • A diffuser is attached to the flash head (soft box or flash attachment).

-           The diffuser reflects the light on the subject as it reduced the harshness of the light.

            (iii)       Direct flash technique

  • The flash head is mounted on a stand/camera and connected through hot shoe, remote or cable.

                        -           Flash head is directed towards the subject/object (in-built flash,
electronic flash).
-           The light from the flash head directly illuminates the subject which could create unwanted shadows.

(iv)       Open flash technique

  • Set the camera up on a tripod and lock the shutter open on ‘B’.
  • Hold the flash unit freely detached from the camera but pointed at the subject.
  • Fire the flash once or twice to illuminate the subject.
  • Close the shutter after exposure.

(NB: Candidates are expected to choose any 3 of the flash techniques)
(d)       -           It can be carried about and used at will.
-           It can be controlled to create desired effect.
-           It can be used as alternative source of illumination in the absence of natural
light.

  • It brings out hidden details when used as fill-in flash.

            -           It can be used to eliminate shadow when used as fill-in light.

(e)        -           Use slow speed with the camera on a tripod to avoid image blur.
-           Use a wide aperture i.e f1.2, f1.4, f1.8.
-           Choose a fast film i.e ASA/1SO (800, 1600).
-           Increase ISO to a fast speed setting for digital cameras.

  • Increase the Exposure Compensation.
  • Use external flash to supply additional illumination.