Gosnap Photography Forums Tutorials Reviews Photos: What is a Flashgun?

What is a Flashgun?
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Shaun on 16 June, 2008 11:17:00
 
I have just picked out some helpful information that I found in the forums and
also made this short video. I hope it helps. enjoy =]
"The trouble with built in flash is they are usually low power and one
directional. An external unit will usualy be more powerful and controllable, has
a movable head allowing for bounce flash also it can be used Off Camera, with a
suitable cord or wireless trigger.
Diffusers ? there are many shapes and sizes of diffuser, I think a fair few of
them are gimmicky, the only diffuser I use is one I made from an old piece of
plastic packaging, works a treat, and cost nothing" - Steve
"I agree with Steve on the built in flashes, they are very low power and i
don't feel they do the photograph much justice a lot of the time, they are also
very harsh, but back n the olden days for me I've used a piece of thin masking
tape to diffuse the flash, its all down to trial and error." - Claire
"There's nothing wrong with the in-built flash, it does what it says it'll do
and it's fine for the family party snaps.
Having said that, it's not cumbersome like an external set-up, and I have often
used it when doing macro stuff without being disappointed.
In my humble opinion external flash is for those enthusiasts and pros into
serious poor light situations and one of the big advantages is that it's not
"one size fits all" but can be adjusted for various strengths and angles. They
come in all shapes, sizes, and prices!
I don't have an external flash, never have, and never needed one, but I'm sure
that it's a great, and often essential, tool for many." - Ron
"The biggest single benefit of an external flash is that it can be used off
camera. As has already been said, built in flash is one directional, harsh and
creates heavy shadows with no diffusion (spread) of light. Off camera flash can
take your subjects from 2D to 3D and gives a whole array of options for creative
lighting.
On the speed lights you can buy additional diffusers (see Practical Photography
this month for some good reviews) some work well and are simple, others not so.
But I'd master each step at a time before investing further. Hope this helps!" -
Gareth
"Flash guns are also great outside when there is strong natural light. Use the
flash gun to fill in to get rid of unwanted shadows." - Andy