Indoor events, backlit portraits and dimly lit venues can be tricky when you're relying on available light. A camera flash light gives you more control over how your subject is lit, without pushing your ISO too high.
Unlike a built-in flash, an external unit usually offers more power and a head you can angle for softer results. On-camera flashes work with both DSLR and mirrorless cameras, provided the connections are compatible.
Finding the Right Flash for Your Photography
A small flash can make a big difference, but the style you choose should suit how you shoot.
Speedlights
Versatile hot shoe flashes with adjustable power and often a tilting head. They're popular for weddings, portraits and events.
Compact and Travel Flashes
Smaller units are easier to carry and suit casual portraits, travel and everyday photography where a full-sized speedlight feels bulky.
Macro and Ring Flashes
Designed for close-up work, these illuminate small subjects at short distances. Ring flashes surround the lens, while twin-head macro systems offer more control over shadows.
Flashes with Wireless Triggering
Some flashes have built-in radio receivers or transmitters, making off-camera lighting easier without extra cables.
TTL or Manual Flash Control?
TTL measures the light through your camera's lens and automatically adjusts flash output. It's handy when subjects move or lighting changes quickly.
Manual mode lets you set power in fractions, such as 1/1, 1/2 or 1/8. This suits product photography and controlled portraits where you want consistent results.
Flash exposure compensation lets you brighten or reduce TTL flash output without changing the overall camera exposure.
Understanding Flash Power and Speed
Three specifications can tell you plenty about how a flash will perform:
- Guide number: Indicates flash output at a stated ISO and zoom setting. Compare models using the same conditions.
- Recycle time: How long the flash needs before firing again. Shorter times help when photographing fast-moving events.
- Zoom head coverage: Adjusts the spread of light to suit different lens focal lengths.
Checking Camera Compatibility
A flash needs to fit your camera's hot shoe, but physical fit doesn't guarantee full functionality. TTL contacts and communication protocols differ between camera brands. Before buying a third-party model, confirm support for your exact camera and any features you need, including high-speed sync.
Softer Light, Better Flash Placement
Direct flash can produce hard shadows and bright highlights. Tilting or swivelling the head towards a nearby white ceiling or wall spreads the light more gently.
Bounce cards, diffusers and small softboxes offer other ways to shape the result. Browse flash accessories for compatible modifiers.
High-speed sync lets compatible flashes work at shutter speeds above the camera's normal flash sync limit. For more control, a wireless transmitter can fire a flash positioned on light stands & mounting equipment.
Get Set Up for Flash Photography at digiDirect
digiDirect offers first-party and third-party flash options for different camera systems, backed by applicable Australian warranties.
Explore flashes & on camera lighting or the wider lighting & studio range. Shop Australian stock with digiDirect's Price Match Guarantee and Click & Collect options depending on availability.
FAQs
Why does my camera flash light not fire on every shot?
It may still be recycling after the previous shot. Low batteries, incompatible settings or a loose hot shoe connection can also cause missed flashes. Check the ready light and connections before shooting again.
What batteries do speedlights use and how many shots do they give?
Many use AA batteries, while others have rechargeable lithium-ion packs. Battery life depends on flash power, capacity and shooting conditions. Full-power flashes use more energy than lower settings.
Can an on-camera flash be used for video?
A photographic flash produces a brief burst of light, not continuous illumination. Video needs lighting that stays on throughout recording. Browse continuous lighting for suitable options.
Is it safe to use an old flash on a modern digital camera?
Not always. Some older flashes have high trigger voltages that can damage modern cameras. Check the trigger voltage against your camera manufacturer's specifications before connecting one.
How should a camera flash light be stored when not in use?
Switch it off, let it cool and store it somewhere dry. Remove disposable batteries for long-term storage and follow the manufacturer's advice for rechargeable packs. A padded case protects the head and hot shoe contacts.
