Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2002/03/29

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Subject: Re: [Leica] SF20 Flash question
From: "Don Dory" <dorysrus@mindspring.com>
Date: Fri, 29 Mar 2002 07:56:59 -0500
References: <000901c1d6e1$59503960$a0ee490c@computer>

Christopher, the distances are based on output.  So, at +1 over ambient
light the distance will be shorter.  You see the EV dial is changing the
ratio to ambient, not supercharging the total output.

You use the EV dial to adjust the look of the shot.  At -1 or -2 the flash
will fill the shadows but not look like a flash shot.  You would use the
plus side for several effects.  At weddings the bride is usually in white so
you need to force more flash to keep the dress white.  Another use of the
plus side is to make the subject POP.

This technique is done by underexposing the ambient by one stop or so
depending on film stock.  Usually done by changing the EI setting or on a
manual camera setting the aperture smaller.  You then adjust your flash to
put out more light relative to ambient with a minimum of the same on the
plus side as the ambient is negative.  Most people on negative film would
add at least a half stop more.  When printed, the main image is right and
the background is darker but not obviously darker as in a P/S at night.

In practical terms, say you are using a 400 speed film.  Set your EI at 200,
set your flash a +1.5, and shoot away.  This is a great method of separating
foreground/background in busy settings.

Hope this helps.

Don
dorysrus@mindspring.com

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Replies: Reply from Andrew Schroter <schroter@optonline.net> (Re: [Leica] SF20 Flash question)
In reply to: Message from "Christopher Williams" <LeicaChris@worldnet.att.net> ([Leica] SF20 Flash question)