Why I used an Off-Camera Flash in the Wilderness

In this blog & video, lets have a look at why I decided to use a diffused flash in the wilderness when shooting a model.

Watch this video…

Highlights of this video:

0:30 – Setup I’m using
1:12 – Shooting with the light-source
1:21 – Image without light-source (YUK!)
1:55 – Move the lights to a different place
2:16 – Explanation of light source and diffusor

Results Speak for themselves!

Why go to all that trouble to hike into the wilderness carrying an extra light-stand, off-camera strobes, umbrella with diffusor and radio triggers?
Well – checkout the difference here… (Remember to click on the images to see them LARGE!)
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Image on left has no flash, image on right has flash!

Adding a touch of studio-lighting to an outdoor shoot

I love shooting outdoors, especially in a beautiful area like the blue mountains near Sydney. With this shoot I wanted to combine the control and lighting I get in a studio with the beautuful backgrounds I find in nature. See how I’m using the ambient light (shade) as the background light and then using the artificial light to enhance the model, so that she is a touch lighter than the background and really draws the viewers eyes to her?
Here is how I did it:

  • Choose a beautiful location!
  • Shoot some test shots with the model, posing in different locations
  • Find the best spot for the final images
  • Setup light source close enough to model – but not in the shot
  • Balance the artificial light with the ambient light (this might take a few shots to get right)
  • Shoot away, try different poses
  • Be sensitive to your surroundings, tread lightly – take only pictures.

Take a look at these gorgeous images – click on the images to see them LARGE!
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Which do you think had the fill flash added? (left or right?)
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Secrets to posing models!

There are more techniques for model photo shoots waiting for you!

Here’s the 3 Step Model Flow-Pose to start with full of great lessons for both the photographer and the model. 

Check it out! [/twocol_one] [twocol_one_last]
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Here is another image I really liked.
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Would love to know what you think? Please leave me your comments below. Brent

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