Understanding how to balance ambient light and flash can transform your photos. With so many types of flashes and varying methods of control, it's essential to grasp the basics and build from there.
Coming to you from Mark Wallace, this insightful video explores how to replicate studio-quality lighting with a simple speedlight. By switching from manual mode to TTL (Through-The-Lens) mode, Wallace shows you how to achieve balanced results without needing expensive gear. Wallace explains that although different flash models have various button layouts and settings, the core principles remain the same. Instead of overwhelming you with brand-specific tutorials, he focuses on teaching the techniques that will help you adapt to any equipment. Learning how exposure compensation affects both ambient light and flash output is a key part of this lesson.
As you watch, you'll see how Wallace sets up his camera in aperture priority mode and adjusts exposure compensation to manipulate the ambient light. He demonstrates this by shooting a subject against a bright background, adjusting the exposure to show the impact on both the subject and the background. This is particularly useful for those who want to maintain detail in both the subject and their surroundings, without one overpowering the other. The ability to control light this way gives you the creative flexibility to shape the look of your photos.
If you’re new to working with flash, this video is an excellent way to dive into the essentials without being bogged down by technical jargon. Wallace keeps things straightforward, showing step by step how to manage exposure compensation and TTL to achieve the desired effect. Whether you're using Canon, Nikon, Fujifilm, or another brand, this lesson will help you make the most of your speedlight. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Wallace.
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!"
