Exposure problem with bounce flash

[cb91710]

Still learning the ropes on the new D3100.
I've got the Sigma 610 flash and the kit is a beauty, however, when I attempt to use the flash in bounce mode.

Straight on shot, the flash works beautifully, but of course, there are hard shadows.
If I tip the flash up, the camera seems to tweak the exposure as if the flash is not present and it ends up overexposed. I'm leaving the catch-light reflector up, but it seems that the compensation is WAY more than the light reflected from that.

Do I need to go manual when using the flash in bounce mode?

Here's my latest straight-on shot:

View attachment 321039

 

[rickboone1]

I'd go manual or aperture priority, yes. Maybe try straight on with a diffuser?

 

[cb91710]

Thank God for digital and 32gb chips. Manual isn't as expensive as it would be if I were still using film

I like the idea of aperture priority. I need to build a lightbox with enough depth to move the background out of focus.

 

[fast14riot]

I have a Gary Fong light dome flash modifyer, it is absolutely amazing for shots like this. I also snagged a few of the cheap inflatable flash diffusers from fleabay and they do work well enough. They were something like $3.00 each and free shipping.


-Xander

 

[ouch]

Most cameras have a control to reduce flash output in 1/3 stop increments (decrements?). Alternatively, you can use exposure compensation. Bracket with one or both, and pick the winner.

 

[cb91710]

I have a Gary Fong light dome flash modifyer, it is absolutely amazing for shots like this. I also snagged a few of the cheap inflatable flash diffusers from fleabay and they do work well enough. They were something like $3.00 each and free shipping.

I snagged one of the fold-up Fleabay diffusers. Didn't think to try it... the pipe was already burning so I was in a bit of a hurry and just kicked out the two shots, bounce and straight

What I'm pretty sure is happening is when the flash it tilted upward, the camera is overcompensating (even though my ceiling is a popcorn and not reflective).
So with the Fong diffuser, you simply point the flash up and use the white dome with the domed part downward?
I've been thinking about picking one up. Might even have room in the gadget bag for the collapsible.

I also picked up a $40 macro ring flash. Camera triggers it, but doesn't seem to recognize that it's installed and tries to pop the built in flash up. I played with it manually holding the flash down and was able to get some decent shots. Going to have to play with the settings and see if I can get it to trigger the ring without also trying to use the internal. I have a feeling I'll run into the same issue if I try to use a radio controlled remote system.

 

[fast14riot]

Yes, that is how the GF Lightsphere is used. Here are a couple pics to illustrate, D200/SB-800 combo.

This is what the lightsphere turns a normal flash into, a giant soft light source! Capturing this pic with my cell phone sure was a trick, got it on the 3rd try after figuring out how!

-Xander