Ok, not literally, but if you feel so inclined, my email address is HERE.. :]

I just thought I would share a quick photo tip a minute, having to do with your camera’s flash..

When using an on-camera flash, whether its from a built-in flash, or from a flash unit mounted in your camera’s hotshoe, you typically have to deal with some pretty harsh shadows immediately behind your subject (or object). Also, while your subject may be well lit and properly exposed, the background will almost always be underexposed, sometimes severally underexposed.

Flash manufacturers are aware of this, and most modern day flash units allow at least some degree of movement of the flash head, allowing the photographer to “bounce” the light from the flash. By aiming the flash toward the ceiling or a nearby wall, the effect of the flash is broadened, providing a softer, more natural light. In addition to lighting your subject less harshly, this also dramatically helps in properly lighting the background of a scene.

For those of you using external flashes (which I very strongly recommend), do yourself a favor, and get a flash diffuser. I use a Sto-Fen Omni-Bounce and could not be happier with its performance. This compact device simply slides over the end of your flash, and produces more of a bare-bulb effect. Instead of directly all the the light from the flash in one direction only, it effectively casts light in all directions, illuminating the whole scene, and softening shadows. It really does a great job. Best of all is very inexpensive! I picked mine up at my favorite photo shop, B&H Photo for less than $17 HERE. They are available for most of todays popular flashes, and are sure to make a wonderful addition to your camera bag.

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