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.