Where do I point the speedlight...

[KmH]

Arrggg! :lmao: Please! Save the texting lingo for texting. :thumbup:
If you notice, hardly anyone here at TPF uses texting lingo.

You can avoid the 'deer-in-the-headlights' syndrome by turning down the flash unit power output.

Shooting outside requires using different techniques from those used shooting inside.

As it is a flash unit's head is a pretty small light source, which has a lot to do with it producing harsh light and sharp edged shadows when used at full power. Outside a subject is usually far enough away from any background that any shadows the subject casts can't be seen in the photo. Using lighting is a lot like shooting pool. It's all about how far and at what angle.

The larger a light source seems to be, the softer the light it produces, and the softer the shadow edges are. Umbrellas and softboxes make small light sources seem to be a lot larger, which is why photographers use them to 'modify the light'.

 

[kundalini]

That is effin awesome kundalini... How much does something like that go for and where'd you get it?!

If you're budget minded, then any of the el cheapo 5-n-1 kits will work and yes, I have one of those too. However, the reflector I used for illustration (it's actually in the difusser dress) is the TriGrip made by Lastolite. It is a much more forward thinking design than the round reflectors, but at a cost. I have a few Lastolite products and I will attest that they are nothing less than professional grade in design, material and build quality.

But here's the kicker...... Lastolite has a multitude of video tutorials (School of Photography) that are extremely instructional, regardless of brand name. They are definitely worth a look.

Lastolite Limited

You can find Lastolite products at Adorama or B&H or any reputabile on-line reseller.

 

[Edward74]

hate the look of a flash straight on and the catchlights smak center of the eye

 

[jake337]

hate the look of a flash straight on and the catchlights smak center of the eye

And why would one have to use bare flash "straight on"? You can use bare flash to shape subjects just like diffused light and with a second or third light you can control your harsh shadows.

 

[gsgary]

But isn't that a bad look? A deer in headlights look? I hate the look of a flash straight on and the catchlights smak center of the eye. :/

Is this deer in the headlights look ? pointed straight at him

 

[Dao]

This one may not be as good as Gary's dog photo. But I also have the hotshoe flash point straight at the subject for fill light. Intended to bring more details on the shadow side (and the mouth). (shot at 100mm)

 

[gsgary]

This one may not be as good as Gary's dog photo. But I also have the hotshoe flash point straight at the subject for fill light. Intended to bring more details on the shadow side (and the mouth). (shot at 100mm)

What a great looking cow

 

[osirus]

If you are in a bind, or want to mess with reflectors and want it on the cheap, go to the nearest dollar store and grab one of those big silver reflectors you put in the windshield of a car.

and get a freind to hold it for you.