Continuous Light vs. Flash: Which Is Right for Your Photography?

The debate between continuous light and flash is more relevant than ever as advancements in technology blur the lines between the two. Knowing when to use each lighting type can make all the difference.

Coming to you from John Gress, this informative video explores the ongoing debate between continuous lights and flash. Gress reflects on how his views have changed over time, especially with the advancements in mirrorless cameras and noise reduction software. Originally, he was hesitant to use continuous lights for portraits due to the high ISO requirements, which often led to noise and lower image quality. However, with modern cameras like the Canon EOS R5 and software like Topaz Photo AI, these concerns have diminished, making continuous lights a more attractive option in certain situations.

One of the critical points Gress discusses is the control of ambient light. In environments where you can't eliminate other light sources, such as office settings or outdoor shoots, flash offers a distinct advantage. Flash can overpower ambient light, preventing unwanted color casts and ensuring consistent exposure. On the other hand, continuous lights might struggle in these environments, leading to issues like green or yellow shadows, particularly if the ambient light is strong or unmanageable.

Another significant aspect Gress covers is the ability of flash to freeze motion, which is particularly useful when photographing active subjects like athletes, pets, or children. The brief, intense burst of light from a flash can capture sharp images without motion blur, even at higher shutter speeds. Continuous lights, while improving in brightness, often require compromises such as higher ISO or slower shutter speeds, which can introduce noise or blur, depending on the situation.

Gress also highlights the convenience of continuous lights, especially in controlled environments like studios. Continuous lights allow you to see exactly how your lighting setup will affect the final image in real-time, simplifying the process of adjusting your lights. This "what you see is what you get" advantage is particularly helpful for those who prefer to work visually rather than relying on pre-visualization and test shots, which are more common when using flash.

For those interested in creative lighting, Gress mentions the benefits of colored LEDs, which can easily be adjusted to any hue without the need for physical gels. This flexibility is a significant time-saver and offers more control over the final look of your images. However, he notes that while LEDs are convenient, they may not always provide the same brightness or punch as flash, especially when trying to achieve certain effects in more complex lighting setups. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Gress.

If you would like to continue learning about how to light a portrait, be sure to check out "Illuminating The Face: Lighting for Headshots and Portraits With Peter Hurley!"