Every year as photographers we have to face the dreaded daylight savings time change, resulting in an earlier sunset, impacting the light available during portrait sessions, ceremonies, and outdoor receptions. While golden hour now ends sooner, understanding flash techniques can help you capture gorgeous photos, even as natural light fades. Here’s how to make seamless adjustments for stunning, well-lit photos after the sun sets.

1. Plan for Low Light in Advance

With sunset earlier in the day, prep work is key. Arrive at your location a bit earlier to make the most of any remaining daylight, and be ready to transition to flash as the sky darkens. Knowing your settings and having your flash on hand will help you quickly adapt to the changing light.

2. Use a Flash Modifier for Softer Light

Direct flash can often look harsh, especially in dim conditions. A flash modifier like The WYNG helps soften the light by bouncing it towards your subjects with a wide glow vs directly aiming the flash head at them. This gives your photos a natural, glowing quality that feels less like a flash and more like natural fill light,

3. Adjust ISO, Shutter Speed, and Flash Power

As the light changes, your settings will too. Here’s a quick setup to get you started:

  • ISO: Increase ISO to make the most of ambient light without overloading your flash. We usually shoot at 1600 ISO.
  • Shutter Speed: For sharpness, keep your shutter speed around 1/125s or higher for portraits, adjusting as needed. Any lower could result in blurry movement.
  • Flash Power: Control your flash power based on the available light, dialing it down if you’re close to your subject or increasing it if they’re farther away.

These balanced settings ensure well-lit photos that capture the beauty of the moment without overexposing or casting hard shadows.

4. Choose the Right Lens for Low-Light Scenarios

Low-aperture lenses (like f/2.8 or f/4) work best for dark conditions. These allow you to bring in as much natural light as possible, making it easier to balance your flash with ambient light. This is especially helpful for ceremonies or receptions where the mood may call for softer, more intimate lighting.

5. Experiment with Flash Angles and Bounce Techniques

Try angling your flash to avoid direct lighting on your subject’s face. Bounce it off nearby walls or ceilings if possible, rotating The WYNG 180 degrees creates a soft diffuser. Experiment with these angles, especially in indoor spaces where you can control the reflection, to get the best look for your scene.

Final Thoughts

While earlier sunsets can be challenging, they’re also a great opportunity to get creative with your flash. With a few adjustments, you’ll be ready to capture those evening shots with beautifully balanced lighting that feels like complimentary fill light.

Keep shooting and enjoy the season of longer nights and cozy receptions!

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