Why add more?

I have been asked several times on recent sessions “Why do you need a flash? It’s so bright outside {sunny} today.”

Well, simply put, my job, by definition, requires the best light to capture the best image.
And sometimes to have the “best light” you have to create it.

The image on the left is a decent image.  She’s cute, has a great expression on her face.  No doubt a sellable image- her parents would like it.  However, by adding the flash I get a little more light back in her face, detail in her cheek bones, sparkle in her eyes, etc.  The next image is much more flattering of her.  I could achieve more light in her eyes by turning her towards the setting sun, but 1) the old rustic tractor wasn’t moveable and this was the angle we wanted; and 2) By looking into the sun she gives us squinty eyes.

A reflector serves the same purpose.  I often use a stand like this one to hold my reflector, although outdoors I may solicit the help of a parent too.  It’s windy on most days here in Oklahoma, so we need to be certain it doesn’t blow over into the image (or onto our model).

I love images like this that simply show light. With a prominent light source like the window behind him and his face turned away, and it should have been in all shadows. But the reflector that he was so fascinated with is doing its job and giving us detail on his face and a sparkle in his eyes. You can even see a basic “shadow line” where the window light stops on the back of his head up to his ears, and where the reflected light stops just behind his eyes. Isn’t light wonderful?!
Photography is recording light. Without light, I can’t do my job, thus finding ways to make the best light greatly benefits and fascinates me!