09/03/2026
Sometimes people ask me why I shoot with OCF (Off Camera Flash) during a bright sunny day. There are a few answers to that question; it allows me to shoot at times and places I otherwise couldn't, it eliminates unwanted shadows on faces, I can control background exposure. However, the number one reason for me is THE EYES. I see lots of beautiful daylight only portrait photos, but the eyes are dead. A properly placed beauty dish and strobe provide that life and spark to the eyes with a catchlight. Here are two images from my recent session with Brittany, that I think can demonstrate what I mean. The image on the left my flash didn't fire for some reason, so you can see how dark Britt is since my exposure was adjusted for the water in the background. The right image she is brought to life with the flash and her eyes sparkle. The water behind her is still visible and not "blown out", because my flash allowed me to exposure her separately while the sun behind her acted as a beautiful hair light. I'd rather NOT lug around my lighting gear, but for me... I just can't shoot any other way. 🤓
