Use a Flash Bracket Properly in a Wedding
Flash photography is a commonly-used method to get well-exposed images of weddings, especially in poorly-lit, indoor venues. However, if not properly controlled, a flash can cause "red eye," which results from the lens seeing a reflection of the flash in the subject's eyes. A flash bracket helps to eliminate red eyes in flash photography. The bracket separates the flash further from the lens and provides the flash and lens different light paths to the subject. As a result, the flash's reflection is not visible to the camera.
Instructions
1. Attach the flash bracket to the bottom of the camera. Almost all single lens reflex (SLR) cameras have a tripod mount on the base, into which the flash bracket will mount. Depending on the camera and flash bracket combination, you may need an optional mounting plate. This plate fits between the camera and flash bracket and prevents the bracket from rotating.
2. Attach the flash unit to the top of the bracket. Most flash brackets are equipped with a "cold" shoe, a socket into which you can mount an external flash, but which does not provide any electronic connections.
3. Adjust the flash bracket so the flash is higher and to the left or right of the lens. The head of the flash should be 12 inches or more from the center of the lens.
4. Connect a sync chord from the camera to the flash. Sync chords can either mount to the camera's hot shoe, or to an external sync connector on the body of the camera, depending on the camera model.
5. Configure the camera for a mode that supports automatic flash operation, such as through-the-lens (TTL) metering. In this mode, the flash should generate correct exposures as defined by the camera's meter. You may also use manual modes if you provide exposure information to the camera.
6. Aim the flash either straight ahead or, if you prefer, bounce the flash off the ceiling for a softer lighting effect.
7. Focus and trip the shutter.
Tags: camera flash, flash bracket, Attach flash, Bracket Properly, Bracket Properly Wedding, camera flash bracket