Automatic flash units are similar in appearance to the manual ones but in addition they have a sensor or `magic eye’ on the front of the unit. This magic eye measures the light reflected back from the subject and when the correct amount of light has been reflected it cuts off the flash. The sensor must always face the subject and must not be covered. Four penlight batteries are usually needed. Here’s how to use it:
*Attach flash unit to camera
*Plug the flash cord into camera socket marked `X’.
*Set the ISO speed.
*Set the shutter speed.
*Focus the camera and check your distance from the subject. Check what aperture you should be use from the calculator on the flash unit for that particular distance. The calculator shows the maximum flash to subject distance for each aperture. Be careful to work within this distance, other wise your results will be either under or overexposed.
*Set the flash mode on the flash unit (each aperture has a different color).
*Set the aperture on the camera
*Turn on the flash.
*Take your picture.
Do remember that the apertures recommended by the makers of the flash units are for ideal conditions (that is a room with light colored walls and ceiling, which reflect the light). Dark walls and ceiling will require an extra stop, which is f8 instead of f11.
Using flash can produce dark shadows behind the subject. With the magic eye unit cover the flash tube a white handkerchief or tissue (an elastic band or tape will hold it in place. This will diffuse the light and soften the shadows. Make sure that the magic eye is NOT covered or all will be ruined!
Flash will reflect in glass or mirrors so pull the curtains across the window or change your position to avoid flash flare. Remember; always carry a spare set of batteries.
When using flash, half the picture is exposed correctly, the other half black.
The shutter speed was set at a faster speed than the recommended shutter speed for flash photography. The shutter has returned too quickly and has cut off half the picture.
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