What is a PC sync cable for a flash?
A PC sync cable is a versatile cable that enables you to connect any external speedlight flash to a camera. It was mostly seen in older film cameras. It’s important to note that this type of cable is not used to connect a camera to a computer. The term “PC” comes from Prontor-Compur, two now defunct German companies that created shutters for cameras.
By connecting the cable from the external flash to the camera, you can sync the flash with the camera’s shutter. Even if a camera has a built-in flash, it may still have a PC sync port, (such as with the Lomo’Instant Wide, which allows you to have more control over your flash settings. Besides this, the PC sync port will also let you connect your camera to studio strobe lights, allowing the camera and studio light to be in synch during studio sessions.
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What is the maximum distance to be from my subject when using a flash?
For most basic camera flashes a maximum of three meters should allow you to still get a good exposure.
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What is the minimum distance to be from my subject when using a flash?
For most basic camera flashes a minimum distance of one meter, or approximately your arm’s length, should be enough to get a good exposure.
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How to use a flash creatively?
Besides using a flash to brighten up dark scenes, you can also use it in more creative ways by trying it in day time, changing the direction of the light, using slower shutter speeds, or even adding color with the colorsplashing technique.
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What are the different types of flash in photography?
The two main types of flash are built-in camera flashes and external flashes that attach to the camera via a hot shoe.
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In what situations should I use a flash?
The most straightforward time to use a flash is when you have a lack of light in a scene, but beyond this you may also want to use a flash in other difficult lighting situations or as a creative choice.
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How do I attach a flash to my film camera?
Depending on the camera, you can attach a flash with either a hot shoe, a flash bracket, or a side attachment.
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What is a hot shoe?
A hot shoe is a mount on top of a camera that facilitates the transmission of electronic signals between the camera and its accessory.
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What is the difference between an in-camera flash and an external flash?
As the names suggest, an in-camera flash is built into the camera itself while an external flash has to be attached. Besides this, portability and creative control are two other factors that differentiate them.