Direct, bounce & fill

Get the most from your on-camera Speedlight

Direct flash

Pointing a flash directly at the subject will give you a bright image. As the flash head is a small light source, you run the risk of creating hard shadows behind the subjects in your shots. Use Flash Exposure Compensation to change the power of the flash output.

Ceiling bounce

Bouncing the light from a ceiling will also create a larger light source, resulting in softer light falling on to your subject, though this will come from above and so may cast shadows beneath features. It’s a better option if you have coloured walls but a white ceiling.

Rear-wall bounce

Flash bounced from a surface or wall behind you gives the advantage of creating a larger light source, resulting in soft light that washes over your subject evenly. This gives a consistent, even and soft light, and should be your preferred option when bouncing light.

Fill flash

When shooting towards bright light sources or for lifting shadows, fill flash can be direct or bounced, as you’re basically filling a small area with flash light. Use a small softbox or feather the light from subjects by tilting the flash head at 45 degrees to give more pleasing results.