Using flashes

[Seven]

Just wondering if someone can give some simple basic tips on using a flash and maybe some guides or rules. I have a speedlite on my Nikon and never explored how to use it better and would like to know any tips some members may have.

I read the guide in the sticky's, but thought it would be nice on a few more tips.

I constantly use the ceiling etc to bounce the flash off and was thinking of getting some other gear for use with portrait stuff etc.

I guess I am still learning how to use it correctly and someone may be able to mention something I haven't thought about.

[accesser]

Just wondering if someone can give some simple basic tips on using a flash and maybe some guides or rules. I have a speedlite on my Nikon and never explored how to use it better and would like to know any tips some members may have.

I read the guide in the sticky's, but thought it would be nice on a few more tips.

I constantly use the ceiling etc to bounce the flash off and was thinking of getting some other gear for use with portrait stuff etc.

I guess I am still learning how to use it correctly and someone may be able to mention something I haven't thought about.

I'm in the same boat as you really, I have a Canon body and flash, I've got a few nice shots with flash one of my faves was this one:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/accesser/3365467170/
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3626/3365467170_abcbc1713c_t.jpg
But I'm not really able to re produce that result each time, for outdoor stuff where I cant bounce I use a filter one of these:
http://www.d-d-photographics.com/stofen.htm
It gives nice results when I use it right, does the nikon have ETTL, I usually use the auto power modes but sometimes I'll also just tinker with manual power.

I've found using non direct flash can be really nice when you get it right either bounce or diffused, What kind of shots are you trying indoors outdoors people I assume ?

[kiwi]

Try this link

http://nikonclspracticalguide.blogspot.com/2008/01/ttl-flash-metering-system-not-ttl-bl.html

[accesser]

Take notes with your flash work and learning process if you can, EXIF data can not tell you things like what angle you had the flash at and if you used a diffuser so take notes of each shot then when you review on your PC you can see if that did or did not work