Expanding the use of my SB-600

[kimoob]

Some have asked me to take family portraits.

I only own a SB-600 speedlight and I don't have any strobes.
If I may ask, please post some tips and techniques on how to get good results.
The only lenses I have is the 50mm f/1.8 and 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6 VR.

I know direct flash isn't always good, even though I have a diffuser.
I do some bounce flashes, but not all results are good.

[TrudivanZyl]

Hi Kimoob

I am no expert on flash, but I think you will need a different technique for outside than for inside a building.

My personal experience for inside-

Bounce flash off a wall or ceiling. Make sure it is a neutral colour- white is the most reflective. A cream wall or ceiling can illuminate the people with a warmer cast. I prefer to bounce from the side. The shadows from the side are more flattering. Use the built in reflector of your SB-600 to send some light directly towards your subject.

For outside I will use a bit of fill flash, and if I have a choice, I will look for a shady area to take the photos.

Take an ambient light reading and set the exposure compensation -1 to- 2/3 stops (on your flash) Your subject will be exposed well while background detail will be maintained.My explanation is very basic, experiment a bit on this technique

Some flashguns have a high speed setting (FP setting) where you can use speed higher than your sync speed, but I am sure there are experts on the forum that will know more about this feature than I do. I must also experiment a bit with this.

There are some very useful articles about flash on this site.

Hope this will help and good luck with your photo shoot

Trudi