Should I use a built in flash on a sunny day?

[ILoveChildren]

Tomorrow it is going to be a beautiful hot sunny day. I plan to take photos at the zoo, but I am not sure if I need a built in flash. I bought my flash specifically to brighten my photos in dark areas. Will I need it for an outside shoot?

[egordon99]

Flash is a great way to "fill in" shadows when shooting in bright sunny conditions. Do you have an external flash? I'd use an external flash as the built-in pop-up flash is extremely limited and lacking in power.

[Jardiniboy]

If you have a external flash bring it. If you wanna travel light and wanna use the built in flash, then I would say use it. Like what egordon99 said use the flash to fill in the shadows. Although the built in flash is lacking power, it's better than nothing.

[PhotosByT]

If you have a external flash bring it. If you wanna travel light and wanna use the built in flash, then I would say use it. Like what egordon99 said use the flash to fill in the shadows. Although the built in flash is lacking power, it's better than nothing.

Oh, I have the same concern... I usually try to find shadey areas.. lol... but I think I can't avoid the sun where I'll be shooting soon..

I've never used a Reflector.. Should I invest in one?

[CJM Photography]

lets put it this way, I have never and never will used the built in flash.

[Viva-photography]

I've never used a Reflector.. Should I invest in one?

I've had the privilege to work with one...ONCE
It was very nice and gave great light even in the middle of the day. (3-4pm)
If you do portraits, go for it.

[Joe Ravenstein]

I think a reflector might be a poor choice to use considering people might be blocked from seeing the critters due to the reflector. This thread is post visit now.

[bobbyz]

When using p&s, I always use little builtin flahs during the day. It makes a big difference. My camera doesn't have built in so I use the one which goes on the hot shoe if I can't get it off camera.

[iadubber]

For the distance to the animals you are going to need some big power to overpower the sun. What time of day are you going?

[ILoveChildren]

I have an external speed flash so that is good. I just can't directly face the flash at someone's face or the picture turns out to be too bright. So usually I turn the flash to the side. I love the idea that inside the light can bounce of the wall :).

[egordon99]

I have an external speed flash so that is good. I just can't directly face the flash at someone's face or the picture turns out to be too bright. So usually I turn the flash to the side. I love the idea that inside the light can bounce of the wall :).

If it's too bright, you're most likely doing something wrong.