How do you use your flash gun?

[tankmojo]

Would like to check out with all Pentaxian, K10D to me, how to have good output consistently from my camera by using flash gun (be it with Pentax brand or 3rd party brand). Usually taking group photo, baby/ children portrait, banquet event and wedding.   

[blackcloudbrew]

Interesting question. Honestly, when I use my external flash, I really don't want to think about it, just use it. It is on my 'to do' list of things to master (mostly by the practice, practice, practice method).

I think another question is how many use their external flashes off camera. I've done it but not very much.

Tim

[tankmojo]

Hi Tim

Using slave is another challenging task, but will be my next era to try out slave in my left hand, while camera at my right hand. Evening and sunset will be ideal for this skill for my portrait shooting.

This will also create another new question, what is the ideal setting (mode) in this arrangement? With PTTL or totally manual?

[calsan]

P mode, generally.
TAV is also good for flash photos, as it allows you to set the shutter speed slow whilst keeping the aperture where you want it.

I tend to use ISO 400 or 500, aperture F5.6 or F8 and with a stofen.
Also possible to use higher ISO and slow speed sync - but needs enough general lighting.

If you are close to the subject, reduce to iso 100 or 200, also reduce flash power by, say, -1 ev.
Above settings seem to work well for the built in flash too.