Flash set up and example shots

[matt_xyz]

yes, they look pretty good Dave. The flash is perhaps a bit strong on the 2 images of the drake, but otherwise they all look about right to me. I also found a flash bracket helped with the blue-eye.

The problem I often encounter now, even with the flash bracket, is that the catchlight appears in the middle of the eye rather than towards the top of the eye, as would be more natural. No obvious solution to this, but a more experienced photographer than I looked at one of my shots recently and instantly commented on the use of flash. Here's an example:



Matt

[pressld2]

Okay, the flash bracket is on my shopping list! I shall try using the pop-up flash in Commander mode to trigger the SB800 before buying the cable though. Not sure if that will work with the off-camera flash level with the pop-up rather than in front but it's worth a try.

Originally Posted by matt_xyz

The flash is perhaps a bit strong on the 2 images of the drake, but otherwise they all look about right to me.

Agreed Matt, although I'm not entirely sure why as the camera and flash settings were the same for all shots. Possibly because the mallards were a bit closer or possibly because they're glossy whereas the geese have more of a matt finish. I could probably tone it down a bit in Lightroom and will try that later. In future I'll try dropping the flash power for closer or shinier subjects.

Originally Posted by matt_xyz

The problem I often encounter now, even with the flash bracket, is that the catchlight appears in the middle of the eye rather than towards the top of the eye, as would be more natural.

I hadn't noticed that but now you point it out I can see what you mean. I still think that bullfinch is a beautiful shot though!

Originally Posted by Ollie

If your D300 is anything like the Canon 400D if the shutter speed drops below 1/250 sec the flash automatically reverts to normal mode even if it's set for high speed synch mode.

Yep, that's exactly how it works Roger. The difficulty I had last Sunday was that I wanted to use higher shutter speeds but because I hadn't set the camera to high speed synch it wouldn't let me select a shutter speed above 1/250th.

Dave P.

[pressld2]

Got my flash bracket yesterday and the pop-up flash on the camera will trigger the SB800 remotely so no need to buy the cable.

Any tips on getting flash angled right or is it just a matter of aiming it by eye to start with and then adjusting as necessary?

Dave P.