Understanding Flash Sync Speeds & Global Shutters

Understanding Flash Sync Speeds & Global Shutters (2024) Flash synchronisation, often referred to as flash sync, is a crucial aspect of photography that ensures a burst of flash coincides perfectly with the camera’s shutter. Over the years, digital cameras have had limitations on the maximum shutter speed at which flash can synchronise. However, with advancements in technology such as electronic leaf shutters and global shutters, photographers can now achieve much higher flash sync speeds.

To understand the concept of flash synchronisation, it’s essential to grasp how conventional shutters operate. Think of them as elevated doors opening and closing to capture light, not people. When light, in the form of photons, enters the camera, it hits the digital sensor, generating electrical signals that are then transformed into an image. The duration for which the shutter remains open impacts the resulting image - longer exposure times lead to blur, while quick shutter speeds freeze action.

When it comes to using flash, timing is crucial. The challenge lies in coordinating the opening of the shutter doors with the burst of flash. Most cameras have a maximum shutter speed of 1/4000th of a second, fast enough to capture fast-moving subjects sharply. However, traditional shutters cannot synchronize with the flash beyond certain speeds, typically 1/250th of a second.

Leaf shutters, found in more expensive medium format lenses, operate differently and can sync with flash at high speeds up to 1/4000th of a second. On the other hand, manufacturers of 35mm cameras have introduced high-speed sync technology to address this limitation. By extending the duration of the flash burst to match the slit scanning across the sensor, high-speed sync allows for flash synchronization at faster shutter speeds. However, this technique comes with a trade-off of reduced flash power and compromised image quality in certain scenarios.

The introduction of Global Shutters by Sony marks a significant advancement in flash synchronisation technology. By eliminating the need for mechanical shutters and adopting electronic shutters that can turn the entire sensor on and off, Sony cameras can achieve flash sync speeds up to an impressive 1/80,000th of a second. This innovation ensures that the entire sensor is exposed uniformly, eliminating issues like wobbly lines and banding.

With technologies like global shutters revolutionising the way we synchronise flash, photographers now have more flexibility and control over their images. Stay tuned for the exciting developments in flash synchronisation in the year 2024 and beyond.

Understanding Flash Sync Speeds with Karl Taylor (2014):

[VisualEducationStudio]

Hi Guys, we're glad you're enjoying this educational and entertaining format on these occasional special videos (see also our funny one on 'Diffraction')- If you enjoyed the video then it really helps us if you can share this video with your fellow photographers, thank you!

[alanvandever]

This was hysterical. I have tears from laughing. At first, I wondered how you got the model to comply with your antics, then I figured you gave her the opportunity for revenge at the end. :-)

[mhcb]

Just absolutely loved it. Humor can make the learning process so much easier and enjoyable. And...a BIG! shout-out to your lovely model whose antics brought your points to life! Kudos to you all!

[JeahnLaffitte]

The production value of this is amazing! Way to VE crew! I giggled plenty

[Kokorbaiqta]

I am loving this entertaining way of educating! Wonderful work!

[vitaleonis]

Historically - I always thought that he was Masterfully brilliant in his knowledge, and was a bit overly arrogant. But, I would always love his technical input. However, I never ever thought that I would enjoy these learning tutorials the way that I am. He has even gone as far as letting a model push his face into jello. I think you are on to something excellent, and I hope you continue on with these fantastic videos. You have taken what could be tedious and mundane technical topics and made them into a very entertaining way of learning.

Cheers, and Well Done, Sir

[veivoli]

I'm glad you addressed the shutter speed versus flash duration point in this video. Many people celebrating the advent of global shutter completely ignore this and claim flash sync up to the very highest shutter speed. Another high-quality video.

I'm also happy the model got her revenge. She was a good sport about the whole thing.

[trypersistence]

Karl, I decided to watch this video even though I already know the material. I'm glad I did. What a marvelous piece of video you and your team created in a fun, witty, deadpan manner, with such creativity and marvelous shot-making! It's also nice to see video makers focusing on eyes instead of the freaking ears, and it was nice to see you having fun with it!

[Jdikmen]

Great refresher! I had to rewind several times as I missed what you were saying once I experienced the satisfying "splat" of the model land on the floor! Great model BTW.

[pedrinnieves]

Thank you for that great information and for the great time, I really enjoy this one, and thanks to your beautiful model too.

[atogweoghieaga]

Another masterpiece! Some people learn to teach, some are natural but then there is another group that that are not just natural at teaching but are additionally passionate both in gathering knowledge not just by being taught too but also via experimentation and years of honing that skill, that’s where Karl Taylor belongs, almost in a class by yourself. I salute the master for teaching and educating us and making sense of our hobby, passion and for some a life long vocation. Weldone sir.

[cmichaelanthonyimages]

Great video karl. Love the in depth explination with a comedic flare. Well done sir!

[josephchan]

I am glad the internet has new and refresher courses on fashion and other photography if looking for work or as a hobby in retirement. This may lead to jobs if needed.

[The_Thin_Man]

First comment I've ever left on YouTube, but I had to do it after this video.
Great to see you taking a lighter approach on this one, Karl. Incredibly humorous yet highly useful information.
Though, I wanted to leave the post mostly to say that it was the model stole the show! What a sport.
Bang up job, gang.

[AelsonlAlves]

The production of this is amazing! I wisk i could like this 1000 times over!

[josephchan]

You did a great video and funny. I am retired, but like keep up with changes and tips just in case. Great work!! 5 stars

[dominikdomstudios]

Always the best explanations, thanks Karl

[Stu_Whittaker_Photography]

😂😂😂😂 absolutely fantastic. Funny video. And I know your model enjoyed slamming your face into that plate of jelly at the end hahaha. 😂😂

Very well done and very well put together 👏🏻 👏🏻

[Saeedalamriphoto]

❤ Very informative video, thank you Karl.

[stellarspellar]

KT, you have really leveled up on this one. This is the best explanation of flash sync speed available anywhere. Thanks for all the great content.