Flash and Mode question

[Mnbruce]

Hi everyone,

On occasion I have been hired to shoot some events and the results have always recieved positive comments but to me the photos have been rather generic,not very creative. I think I have wanted to make sure I made good exposures so I have stuck with the Program mode,which I never use any other time, when using a flash.

Tonight I am shooting a reception for a couple that was married recenty in another state. I would like to step it up as far as results go and use some of the skills I have aquired while shooting just for myself. Mostly I'm talking about DOF. I normally shoot in AV,some times in Manual but I am not totally confident using a flash in these modes, but I know that needs to change to accomplish what I want. I guess I am just looking to see how you folks use your flashes in these modes. Any suggestion would be appreciated. I use the 430EX flash.

Thanks,
Bruce

[Robert16]

Some really good advice in this thread http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=777491 Sapearl gives specific settings which you might want to try. Good luck.

[Mnbruce]

Thanks Robert! That's some good info. I am going to shoot 90% of my images the way I usually do so I can satisfy the couple,but I just need to fiddle around a little.;)

[tim]

If i'm using a flash as the main light I have the camera in M. If the flash is fill I use Av. It sounds to me like you're a beginner to flash, but unfortunately there's no book or course that I know that teaches you how to effectively use flash - it's just experience, and reading forums.