Understanding Flash Exposure

In the past, flash photography was often only used by professionals. There were no Through-the-Lens meters to control the flash output for you, and determining the proper settings required using difficult mathematical equations and expensive flash meters. You also had to get the film processed before you could see if your calculations were correct. This was a major deterrent to most amateur photographers who thought flash photography was too expensive and difficult to master.

Previously, even professional photographers steered clear of learning flash photography because of the general belief that it’s still very complex. Instead, the professional settled for available light, missing out on a whole new world of image creation. Today, however, more and more professional and amateur photographers alike are embracing flash photography, thanks (in part) to camera manufacturers using technology like that found in the Nikon CLS.