May
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Thu
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Using external Flash for weddings
Bob answers a question on using external flash for weddings. Mainly for Canon users but much of the letter applies to all.Dave- This is Bob Nagy…and I use the 40D in weddings all the time. You are correct, the internal flash won’t work at 25 feet - unless you are at 800 ISO and above -and then not very well. Here is the set-up you need for weddings: I would get the 430EX. I have both the 580 and 430. The 430 is totally fine for weddings. I’ve gone to using it and having the 580 as backup. This is because it is plenty bright enough and it weighs less than then 580. You should shoot at 500 ISO for almost all shots except the Altar Returns (set-ups portraits). I seriously suggest fixed studio strobes and umbrellas for this. If you are shooting these outside, you can use natural light plus the 430EX. 500 ISO gives very low noise and lots of range for the flash. In large blow-ups, I never see noise at 500. You will also need a Lumiquest diffuser or Stofen diffuser.- inexpensive and give great results. Using the diffuser, set the big flash for flash compensation of +1 stop and aim it towards the ceiling. The bounce lighting will look stunningly natural. Do a test shot at that location and adjust the +stop on the big flash for a good histogram…well exposed. Different settings require different compensation. +1 is good for 12 feet away….+3 for lighting a room. When using the 430 for outside fill-flash, use it without the diffuser- straight on. Use Auto white balance for all candids…bounce flash…and for studio strobes go to the lightening bolt symbol..flash setting WB. Studio strobes and umbrellas are a good investment. Photography is all about lighting… Studio strobe sets are 20% of the price they were 10 years ago. The first time you shoot with one, you’ll know why people use them. I always use them for Wedding set-up shots. (and use ISO 200) Oh, also, I’d use P mode…which is full auto, but let’s you adjust things. Take care- Bob Nagy -Elite Video