3 Subtle and Natural Off-Camera Flash Portrait Techniques

Photographers who are new to working with artificial light often think that strobes always look distinctly different from natural light. And while it is true that you can shoot creative, highly stylized images that would not be possible with just sunlight, you can use strobes to emulate natural light to make subtle, natural looks. This excellent video tutorial will show you three off-camera flash lighting techniques that will allow you to create effective and compelling portraits. 

Coming to you from Pye Jirsa with SLR Lounge, this great video tutorial will show you three effective off-camera flash techniques for natural and subtle portraits. Learning how to use flash to create a more natural look is an important skill. While working with strobes does not preclude you from using natural light, the advantage is that you are freed from working at specific times of day or in certain locations, and you are no longer at the mercy of the weather. It gives you a lot of creative freedom that wouldn't be possible otherwise. Check out the video above for the full Jirsa. 

If you would like to continue learning about how to light a portrait, be sure to check out "Illuminating The Face: Lighting for Headshots and Portraits With Peter Hurley!"

Alex Cooke's picture

Alex Cooke is a Cleveland-based portrait, events, and landscape photographer. He holds an M.S. in Applied Mathematics and a doctorate in Music Composition. He is also an avid equestrian.

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