Many photographers prefer to use monoflash when taking pictures outdoors or location, and use the flash when taking pictures generator under study.
This of course is a choice of each and there are even many photographers who use both systems together.
If you ever decide to buy a studio flash, here are some important things to consider before making a decision.
1. Flash power: power is not measured in watts or watt-seconds per second. It is a mistake to believe that the more watts per second has more power will have the flash. Flash output will vary according to the design and quality of the flash tube and reflector.
One way to see the flash power is with the guide number.
The guide number is the product of the diaphragm to be used in the camera, at a certain distance and with a certain sensitivity to light the object properly.
The higher the guide number the more power you have flash.
NG = distance x number f
If for example we use ISO 100 and the flash guide number is 24 of our feet, this means that if we have an object at 6 meters and use an aperture f / 4 the object will be lit correctly (24 = 6 x 4). Overall the guide number is given for ISO 100.
2. Record in the shot: it is important to have a flash to shoot the same amount of light. If the flash is very fickle, and each shot gives a much different light, then the photos will be displayed all different.
And this means that there will be well exposed photos and poorly exposed photo.
3. Recycling time: this is the time taken to fill the capacitor energy to fire again. The faster is more expensive the flash.
A unit can recycle in 1 second.
4. Modeling light: more expensive flashes come with a modeling light of 250 watts. But modeling lights are 50 or 100 watts. is also important that the modeling light can be set in proportion to the flash.
Thus we can see more realistically as the flash will illuminate a scene.
5. Flash duration: this means how long it takes the flash to shoot. It may take 1/5000 and be quick or you can shoot at 1/200 and be slower. This can be important depending on the type of work they do.
6. Also keep in mind the size of the flash, and if the weight is comfortable to move. If you'll use in a study then no problem.
But if we take outdoor shots using heavy equipment or large can become a problem.
7. And last but not least, is the budget or how willing or able to invest in this type of equipment.
And not only have to think about the flashes, but for all the accessories that I can need.
When we buy a computer is necessary to evaluate the type of work we do and we should agree to that. Also good, if there is opportunity to try the make and model we are interested in before buying the team. Sometimes you can rent the flashes and accessories that can give us a better idea of how they work and if they are the right choice.
