Flash Exposure Compensation

[MichaelJ07]

So, I take it that this Flash Exposure Compensation feature kinda "advances" or "delays" the flash so something in the background can be lit that normally would not be lit? [ Like back in the old days of car tune-ups we would advance the timing of the distributor to get a snapier (is that a word?) acceleration.]

IF that is not what the FEC function is used for, could someone explain it to me? Nothing fancy. Just give me an example of where it would be altered for a snapshot.

Sure is fun learning this stuff with you all out there for us!

Michael

[MichaelJ07]

Ok, I think I have it. Please "fine tune" me if this is incorrect in theory.

Decrease the FEC if the scene is darker in tone.
Increase the FEC if the scene is lighter in tone.

Does that jive with you folks?

Michael

[low orbit]

Other way around.

An increase in compensation will give you more light, dialling it back will give you less.

(For example, to get catchlights in people's eyes when shooting into the sun you'd decrease the compensation so you don't blow them out).

Cheers.

ps shouldn't this be in the flash section?

[Jon]

Ok, I think I have it. Please "fine tune" me if this is incorrect in theory.

Decrease the FEC if the scene is darker in tone.
Increase the FEC if the scene is lighter in tone.

Does that jive with you folks?

Michael

Other way around.

An increase in compensation will give you more light, dialling it back will give you less.

(For example, to get catchlights in people's eyes when shooting into the sun you'd decrease the compensation so you don't blow them out).

Cheers.

ps shouldn't this be in the flash section?You're both saying the same thing. If it's a dark subject, you'll want less light, to keep the tones dark. If the tones are light, add light so the flash lets them be light, not mid-grey.

As for the section, I'm assuming OP has a PowerShot.