Street photography, flash and you: essential tips and tricks for flashier photos

Everyone who’s viewed my Instagram knows I love to take photos. Everyone who has met me knows I can’t live without my flash. Sure, street photography in natural light is great and all, it’s something that captures the candid moments of everyday life, but I think flash is an element that elevates it to something surreal. I control the light, it allows me to add my own unique expression to my photos.

In this blog post, I’m going to explore some of the techniques, benefits and challenges of shooting street photography with flash, providing insights for both beginners and seasoned street photographers.

Having the nerve to shoot with flash

I find a large barrier to entry in using flash is simply the thought of using it. Getting used to taking photos of people is one thing, but taking photos of people and guaranteeing they will notice you is another matter.

In all honesty, most negative responses to flash I have received come from other photographers: “people won’t like it” or “you shouldn’t disturb the scene”. I can count the negative reactions I have had to flash on one hand. I have been sworn at once (the very first photo I took in 2025), and I have had a verbal dressing down once.

What you will find, is that it is the same as regular street photography. The people who mind will mind, and the people who don’t care won’t care. You will even find people who find it fun and want you to take more photos! The key, as with any photography, is identifying who is open (or at the very least, indifferent) to having their photo taken and who would object, and this only comes with experience. As always. just be respectful; mistakes will happen but be apologetic and use them as an opportunity in defusing a situation.

If you’re only picking up the camera for the first time, I certainly would recommend against running out with a flash and firing it off; but if you’ve got some steps under your belt and have worked on your conduct on the street, by all means go for it.

Halloween in Shibuya, 2024, Jared Poole

One of the best ways to ease yourself into shooting with flash (though this applies to shooting in natural light too) is to shoot an event such as a parade or festival where other photographers will be present; people will expect to have their photos taken, and 99% of people will want to get in on the fun. This does depend on the event; I wouldn’t shoot with flash at a sombre ceremony.

Another possible route to shooting with flash is to shoot local night life (assuming you are both safe and comfortable). The first time I truely felt confident shooting with flash was a late night (2-3am) in Lan Kwai Fong, the local party district in Hong Kong. People were either having too good a time or too drunk to care.

I’ve italicised safe and comfortable as this is key to the whole thing. Your subjects will feel more comfortable if that’s the energy you’re giving off too. It also helps having a comfortable vibe if you are going to ask them for their photo (don’t listen to anyone telling you photos must be completely candid, talking to people is half the fun of street photography).

Why would I want to use flash?

Incorporating flash into street photography can transform ordinary scenes into extraordinary images. Here are some key benefits of using flash:

1. Isolate your subject!

Hong Kong is chaotic by nature. I’ve found that using flash cuts through that, allowing me to bring certain elements to fore. By illuminating a subject with a burst of light, you can create a stark contrast that draws attention to the person or object you are photographing. This technique is particularly effective in busy urban environments where distractions are everywhere.

When using flash, you need to think about the direction and intensity of the light, especially if you’re using off-camera flash. A well-placed flash can create dramatic shadows, adding depth and texture to your images. Experimenting with different angles can yield surprising results, transforming a mundane scene into a striking composition. In addition, the use of flash can help to highlight intricate details that might otherwise go unnoticed, such as the patterns on a subject's clothing or the texture of a weathered wall behind them. This attention to detail can significantly enhance the narrative quality of your photographs, inviting viewers to explore the story behind each image.

2. Control the light!

Street photography often involves unpredictable lighting conditions, from harsh midday sun to dimly lit alleyways. Flash provides us with the ability to control the light, ensuring that subjects are well-exposed regardless of the ambient conditions. This control is especially useful during twilight or night shoots, where natural light may be insufficient.

Using flash allows for greater flexibility in choosing where and when to shoot; you don’t need to constantly be chasing light. We can venture into areas that might otherwise be challenging due to poor lighting, capturing moments that would be missed without the added illumination. If you’re shooting film, this means you can shoot at night too. Furthermore, by adjusting the flash power, we can create a range of effects—from subtle fill light that softens shadows to powerful bursts that can completely change the mood of a photo. This adaptability can be a game-changer, allowing for spontaneous captures in dynamic environments.

3. Get creative!

Flash opens up a world of creative possibilities in street photography. Techniques such as slow shutter flash can produce stunning effects, where the subject is sharply lit and frozen in time while the background remains blurred, conveying a sense of motion. This approach can enhance the storytelling aspect of an image, providing context to the scene.

Additionally, using coloured gels on your flash (though I will admit this isn’t something I have done) can introduce interesting hues to your images, creating a mood or atmosphere that complements the subject. Whether it’s a vibrant red or a cool blue, coloured flash can elevate the visual impact of street photography. These creative tools not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your photographs but also encourage you to push the boundaries of your artistic expression, making each shot a unique exploration of light and form.

Essential Gear for Flash Street Photography

To effectively shoot street photography with flash, having the right gear is crucial. Here are some essential items to consider:

1. Camera and Lens

A reliable camera with manual settings is essential for flash photography. DSLRs and mirrorless cameras offer the flexibility needed to control exposure settings effectively. If you’re like me and like to shoot film though, the ideal cameras are those with leaf shutters, but any other camera will do too, it simply means your fastest shutter speed will be limited (for example my camera’s flash sync speed is 1/50th of a second).

When selecting a lens, this goes as per the normal rule: what type of street photography do you wish to pursue? A wider lens can capture more of the environment, while a longer lens can help isolate subjects from a distance, allowing for candid shots without intruding on personal space. However, bear in mind that having anything longer than 50mm will produce diminishing returns. Light obeys the inverse square law, so the further away you are from your subject, your flash’s light will be proportionally weaker. This is why I usually opt for 28mm or 35mm.

2. Flash Unit

A dedicated flash unit is a worthwhile investment for street photography. On-camera flashes provide convenience, while off-camera flashes offer greater creative control. A flash that allows for manual power adjustments is a must, as this will enable you to fine-tune the light output based on your shooting conditions. I personally prefer off-camera flash, but this comes with it’s drawbacks: you will always need two hands (which means you can’t walk around with a coffee) and it can feel very aggressive.

Consider using a flash with a swivel head, which allows for bouncing light off walls or ceilings (if you’re shooting indoors), creating a softer and more natural effect. This technique can help diffuse harsh shadows and create a softer light quality.

Techniques for Flash Street Photography

Mastering the use of flash in street photography requires practice and experimentation. Here are some techniques to consider:

1. Balancing Ambient Light and Flash

Tsim Sha Tsui, 2024, Jared Poole

One of the key challenges in flash photography is balancing the ambient light with the flash output. This “technique” involves adjusting your camera settings to achieve a harmonious blend of both light sources. If you’re using film, you really just need to gauge it from experience, but if you’re using digital, set your camera to a low ISO and a wide aperture to allow more ambient light into the frame.

Next, adjust your shutter speed to control the amount of ambient light captured. A slower shutter speed will allow more ambient light, while a faster shutter speed will reduce it. Finally, adjust the flash power to achieve the desired exposure for your subject. This balance can create dynamic images that feel natural and engaging.

When I’m using this technique with film, I meter for the highlights (usually the background), and allow the flash to illuminate the shadows (my subject).

2. Using Flash in Candid Situations

Candid moments are the heart of street photography, and using flash can help capture these fleeting instances. To do this effectively, consider using a technique called “fill flash.” This involves using a low power setting on your flash to gently illuminate your subject without overpowering the ambient light. I find this easier with off-camera flash, as you can direct the flash to eliminate shadows from your subject.

Fill flash is particularly useful in bright sunlight, where shadows can be harsh and unflattering. By using a flash to fill in these shadows, you can create more balanced and visually appealing images. This technique takes practice to develop an instinct for when and how much flash to use in various situations.

Challenges of Flash Street Photography

While using flash can enhance street photography, it also presents certain challenges that photographers must navigate. Understanding these challenges can help in developing effective strategies to overcome them.

1. Distracting Subjects

North Point, 2024, Jared Poole (believe it or not, she wasn’t actually reacting to me)

One of the most significant challenges of using flash in street photography is the potential to distract or disturb subjects. The sudden burst of light can draw attention and change the dynamic of a scene, leading to less candid moments. To mitigate this, consider using a more subtle approach to flash photography.

Using a lower flash power or bouncing the flash off nearby surfaces can create a softer effect that is less intrusive. Additionally, being mindful of your surroundings and the people within them can help maintain the natural flow of street life while capturing compelling images.

2. Learning the Flash Settings

Flash photography requires a good understanding of various settings, including power output and sync speed (there might be some other factors I’m not familiar with when using a digital camera). For beginners, this learning curve can be daunting. However, practice and experimentation are key to mastering these settings.

Start by familiarising yourself with your flash unit and its capabilities. Take the time to experiment in different lighting conditions, adjusting settings as needed. Over time, this practice will build confidence and proficiency in using flash effectively in street photography.

3. Weather and Environmental Conditions

Weather can significantly impact flash photography, especially in outdoor settings. Rain, snow, or extreme heat can affect both the equipment and the shooting experience. It’s essential to protect your gear from the elements, using weather-sealed equipment or protective covers when necessary. For me, rain affects the connection between my off-camera cable and the hot-shoe of my camera, meaning I usually have to go on-camera.

Additionally, consider the impact of environmental conditions on your flash output. In bright sunlight, for example, the flash may struggle to compete with the ambient light, requiring adjustments to power settings and camera exposure. Being adaptable and prepared for changing conditions is crucial for successful flash street photography.

Conclusion: Embracing Flash in Street Photography

Shooting street photography with flash to me, is some of the most fun you can have. While it presents unique challenges, the benefits of enhanced subject isolation, control over lighting conditions, and creative effects make it a valuable tool. By investing in the right gear, mastering essential techniques, and being mindful of the environment, it allows me to find new ways of capturing what I see (or the shadows I imagine).

Ultimately, the key to successful flash photography lies in experimentation and practice. Embrace the learning process, and don’t be afraid to push the boundaries of your creativity! With time and dedication, flash can become an integral part of your street photography toolkit, helping to capture the vibrant stories of urban life.

Want more information on street photography? Check out my street photography blog posts for further thoughts and conversations.

Have questions about flash photography or want to share your own experiences? Leave a comment below or reach out to me directly on Instagram!