Using Multiple Flashes

If you are ready to take your flash photography to a new level, the next step after using a high-end flash with your advanced camera is using multiple high-end flashes. By changing the angles of the flash units in relation to the subject, you can significantly change the look of your photographs. Use these tips to successfully employ multiple flash units in your photography.

• One reason for using multiple flashes is to provide a more powerful light from the flashes versus using one flash alone. With two flashes, the light is much stronger. If using two flashes side by side, try to keep them about 6 inches apart, so you don't end up with too much additional light concentrated in one area of the photo.

• If you need to shoot an indoor scene where objects in the background and the subject in the foreground both must be illuminated, two flash units will work well. The on-camera flash will illuminate the subject, while a second flash can be fired remotely to illuminate the background.

• A second and/or third flash can be used to minimize the harsh light from a primary, on-camera flash, especially if the subject is against a wall, where the flash creates a strong shadow. By placing additional flash units to the right and left of the subject, the extra light can remove the effects of the shadow.

• To achieve more realistic colors in your multiple-flash photo, try reducing the shutter speed. With a slower shutter speed, the natural colors of the shot will brighten. At the same time, using multiple flash units will provide enough light to allow the camera to pick up the natural colors.

• When you are initially learning how to use multiple flashes, try shooting plenty of photos and use the flash units at a variety of angles and positions, giving you the best chance of recording a photo with exactly the lighting conditions you want.

• With multiple flashes, one technique to remove shadows from the face is to use a second flash about one foot above the on-camera flash. This technique also can help diffuse the shadow behind the subject.

• Finally, an interesting technique for using a second or third flash is to pair the flash with a colored gel filter. One use for a gel filter is to simulate a specific type of light. For example, using a red gel filter with a flash in a fireplace, you can simulate a fire in the background of your photo.