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Off camera flash technique

A tutorial on OCF(off camera flash)

So today as its raining i thought it would be a good idea to offer those with any X100 series of camera a tutorial on the cameras ability with this technique.

Firstly we need to consider why to bother with OCF at all? Why not use the built in flash? Why not put a small flash directly onto the camera hot shoe?

The answer is simple really : The light that comes straight in line from the camera gives the least flattering light and direct flash is harsh in its output.

So how do i go off camera?: 

The method to get the flash off camera and at another location is again very simple, you need a flash gun and a trigger. When starting out its tempting to go with a flash that is TTL Sync. TTL or through the lens is a technique where the camera communicates with the flash to give enough power to light the scene right at the point of exposure. This sounds great doesnt it? The problem with TTL is that it uses more power than manual exposure as it tries to light the scene, also it varies to each exposure so results arent consitent.

Manual exposure with manual flash is the way to go.


I use the X100V to shoot with off camera flash often, i use the KISS method (Keep It simple Stupid) so i dial in an ambient exposure about 1/3 under exposed. Put the flash on a stand with a trigger on the camera.
Keep taking a shot and increasing the flash power to suit. 

Whats so unique about all the X100 cameras?

 
They have what is known as a leaf shutter this is a shutter built within the lens. Most other cameras have a focal plane shutter as this suits a varied lens set. The X100 can synchronise at a vey high shutter speed of say S4000 of a second compared with 250th of a second! This alllows for less flash power due to the short duration, also a better control of ambient exposure.

Great lets go OCF what do i need?


I use a simple folding lightstand and a Godox V850 flash and trigger, very cheap set up indeed. Ebay around £60 used flash and and a stand about £20 - Godox trigger around £15. 

Another very cheap way to trigger your flash off camera is with a cheap Canon compatible cable, this works well although a bit limiting as you can't place the flash too far from the camera

The shot below of Indi was lit using the technique above with a lower powered flash this is the thing you dont need much power at all!

I hope all the above helps any new strobist users out there - please send any questions in

Next tutorial will talk about light modifiers and why not bare flash? 



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