Flash Where You Least Expect It

Use flash outdoors for effects that keep the spotlight on the natural world.

Taking the perfect photograph is like creating the perfect pastrami sandwich: You pile on the pastrami higher and higher, and just when you think it's enough -- you add one more slice. In nature photography, your flash can be that extra slice.

It isn't surprising that outdoor shooters often overlook the humble flash. Perhaps it's the abundance of natural sunlight, or fear of the overly artificial look.

It wasn't so long ago that I had the same flash aversion, until a little boredom (the true mother of discovery) led me to some experimentation. Before I knew it, foregrounds were popping, shadows became tools for adding depth, and a new style began to emerge in my images. Finally, I had enough slices stacked up for that perfect pastrami sandwich.

To get the job done, you need at least one accessory strobe. I use the Canon 580EX Speedlite, which is powerful enough to mimic studio-quality lighting and more than enough to get the job done outdoors, at a reasonable weight of about 13 ounces. (Size and weight are definitely a consideration for nature shooting, which almost always involves some hiking.)

Most DSLR manufacturers and a number of independents make comparable dedicated accessory strobes; go to page 2 for a sidebar on appropriate units.

Ian Shive

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