Event Photography: How to Use Flash and Make it Look Natural!

In this video I discuss how to use flash at an event. I get into a lot here, including some more advanced flash techniques. But I also discuss when to use flash, when to use flash when you might not necessarily need it, how to make your flash seamlessly blend in with your available light, and so much more.

(one correction I need to make: you can wirelessly trigger an external flash if your camera has a built in flash. But otherwise, you will need some sort of trigger)

If you have not already watched my video on using flash in TTL mode vs Manual mode, then I strongly recommend you check it out:

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#eventphotography #eventphotographer #flashphotography

[tlfilms]

Would have liked it if i saw samples instead of just talking

[dennyhenryphoto]

I've been an event photographer for over 15 years, and this is probably the best video on real-world on-camera flash usage I've seen.

[EETSTHECREATOR]

I’m so proud that I got to a stage where this all makes perfect sense 🎉

[CrsgbsnTube]

So glad I found you as someone who doesn't want to use flash but realised I need to for event photos. Thanks.

[cannga]

VERY nice tutorial. I've been taking pictures of evening/night events at f2, 1/125, IS0 320-400 for the same reason. People always enjoy how the background and the venue's warm golden light etc. show up nicely in the picture, instead of just dark black. Because I don't like high ISO noise, I use the above fixed setting most of the time, and let the flash fills in. I realize I am using more flash light this way but in general I've found the depth and atmosphere of the room are still very nicely captured.

[juliadeveau]

The new variables is what makes this so alluring! This is the most exiting time of my life.

[jaysonnavallophotography]

I love that cranking up the ISO pass what I'm comfortable or my camera can do without too much noise + flash would definitely reduce the noise still getting that good lighting in dark situations

[mari.rukavina]

Hi Mik, your video popped out on YT with event photography advice and I've been binge watching ever since. Your videos are smart, interesting, with no fluff but real thing. Great teacher you are. Thank you for your help, best of everything and greetings from Croatia!

[florentinoacosta]

I have just bought my first external flash and this is a start for me to learn more how to use it. Thank you Mik.

[MichaelVincentMagic]

Excellent video - I love photographing Events. I photographed an event last week in a very nice Wine Bar. The Lighting was low but I knew my Speedlight would make a big difference to the look and feel of the images. My Client was happy with her images. I am glad I found your video, it has added to my data base of knowledge.👍🏽

[chriscorbin]

It's good you told people about the default 'midtone' exposure of the flash (with no fec ). It seems not many people are aware of it. Mind you not many people are aware the camera does the same thing either...which is no surprise if they lear from other youtube videos. Your's is one video that actually tells the truth...

[mcs]

Spectacularly helpful to hear your approach in a way that is not specific to a particular set of gear. I can actually apply this to get better. Thanks!

[arlindhinds]

Just found the site and liked it. I think Mik is very honest and really explains how to .

[nodnarb]

Thank you for the honest sharing from your experience! Great video

[MaryJane]

Great tips. I love using checklists -- calms me down. Especially good advice to double your commute time to the event. For me to get to downtown Seattle, I'd probably use one of three bridges...all are drawbridges that can go up unexpectedly!

[kmkphotography]

THIS WAS SO HELPFUL!! TY, , now off to watch more of your vids!! so east to follow!

[maximus]

Appreciate the insights sharing your techniques. Looking forward to trying them out.

[garyrowe]

Ah yes, unexpected lighting situations are 'exciting' ... when the photos were for my personal use, such situations were 'interesting'; but when I had to do it for a paying client? Well, a very different word would spring to mind ;)

[jennanadigoo]

Honestly the best content period from a working professional!

[carmenfraser-king]

Thanks for leaving the bloopers in - those are awesome 😎 Great video thanks