Travel photography tips: Use a touch of fill-in flash

Professional photographer Steve Davey presents his travel photography tips. This week, find out how to use a touch of fill-in flash

By Steve Davey
Published 23 Jan 2015, 10:00 GMT, Updated 1 Jul 2021, 15:51 BST

Sometimes you'll have to photograph someone in the middle of the day, when the light comes from directly overhead. This isn't very flattering and will cast long shadows over your subject's face. This will especially be the case if they're wearing a hat, which will obscure their face in a deep shadow. To get around this, professional photographers will use a small burst of fill-in flash. Simply switch your camera flash onto 'forced' or 'always fire' mode and the camera will fire the flash even in the brightest sunlight. For a more natural result, adjust the flash exposure compensation to -1 stop, so the flash light is a little darker. bettertravelphotography.com

Travel Photography Masterclass

Here at National Geographic Traveller, we've teamed up with professional photographer Steve Davey, who will be presenting his travel photography masterclasses at Destinations: The Holiday & Travel show. These two-hour masterclasses will help sharpen your skills, iron out bad habits and give you a better understanding of your camera's functions to enhance your travel images. Book your masterclass, from only £30. Early booking is advised as places are limited. 

 

 

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