Strobe Use As Supplemental Exterior Lighting

[smoke665]

I'm experimenting using a bare speedlight (no modifier) on a stand, high off camera as shadow fill on ambient light portraits. Anyone doing this, any tips or suggestions?

 

[JoeW]

I'm experimenting using a bare speedlight (no modifier) on a stand, high off camera as shadow fill on ambient light portraits. Anyone doing this, any tips or suggestions?

I've done this when either shooting at the beach at noon (to get rid of raccoon eyes on people) or when shooting someone with a sunset/sunrise in the background.

Your setup is good for dealing with shadows under the eyes (mid-day sun). For a bright background (sunrise/sunset) you'll want to diffuse and spread the light a little more (so you don't have a bright face and dark neck and body). Also put a hook on the base of the tripod center pole so you can hang a water bottle, knapsack, camera bag from there so you don't run the risk of it blowing over.

 

[smoke665]

I've done this when either shooting at the beach at noon (to get rid of raccoon eyes on people)

Exactly what I'm looking for, that and to light up the iris. I've been experimenting more with HSS and f1.4-2.8, but compatible speed lights with Pentax are PITA. Are you using HSS or an ND filter and shutter sync speed? The other issue with using a speed light with a modifier, is the power is barely sufficient bare, unless you can get really close with it.

I've also tried large reflectors, but using one with a VAA (voice activated assistant) isn't always practical, especially when the VAA is a wife who doesn't take directions well). LOL Just about the time the reflected light is right she moves.

 

[JBPhotog]

Another way to approach this topic is to use the ambient as the fill and flash as the main. Depending on your speed light's power, cameras minimum ISO ,highest sync speed and ambient, you can achieve much better control with a modified flash. Get it in close for better output, use grids to control spill, etc.

 

[smoke665]

Another way to approach this topic is to use the ambient as the fill and flash as the main. Depending on your speed light's power, cameras minimum ISO ,highest sync speed and ambient, you can achieve much better control with a modified flash. Get it in close for better output, use grids to control spill, etc.

Underexpose the the ambient by 1-2 stops and use flash to bring it up? I'm going to try something similar Friday on an outdoor shoot.

 

[JBPhotog]

Underexpose the the ambient by 1-2 stops and use flash to bring it up? I'm going to try something similar Friday on an outdoor shoot.

Yes it could even be 1/2 stop brighter, you decide the look you are after. Additionally, the modifier in use will dictate the effect so if you want hard shadows, choose bare flash, soft shadows, umbrella or soft box etc. Modifier size outside can be tricky if there is wind and of course the closer it is to the model, the larger in proportion to the model it is meaning it is softer so you can use a smaller modifier. Conversely a 3' octa box 10 feet away will not be soft light on the model. Have fun!