Improving flash results with the 7i

[dougsmit]

Being disappointed with results with the built in flash on my 7i, I bought a 3600HS(D) flash. Straight out of the box, this improved results but I found a couple tricks I'd like to share and solicit suggestions from those more experienced.

Unhappy with the harsh look of direct flash, I tried ceiling bounce. While this worked, real improvement :idea: came when I added a piece of white foam (craft store) to direct some light onto the subject and cast a small shadow behind. I offer a small sample:



Close up use was impared by lack of a way to point the flash down onto the close subject. :idea: The immediate answer was to put the flash part way into a bubble wrap bag. This made a bright and diffuse soft light. Again I have a sample shot at a Garden show:


In case all this is not clear, these pictures might help:


I am still unhappy with results in vertical format and need find a way to place the light above the camera in vertical orientation. I would like to avoid having to buy the very expensive adapter and cable Minolta sells for the purpose so I may be using the wireless mode and a home made bracket. I would enjoy hearing any suggestions from those who have addressed this problem.

[Binji7]

Use wireless and a tripod for the flash. I have done this for bounce with macros and it really works well.