Do you use the build in flash and when

Hi
Just that
its a short question
Thanks

If it is too dark, I do not see why not. I would use it, but also take one without flash at higher ISO.

Yes, I do use the built-in flash from time to time. I typically put a white glove or napkin over it though to soften it a bit.

No, and never. Groms use this(sorry for labels).

Don't get me wrong, I'm no "professional" yet, but I like to think so sometimes and I treat it like such. I am always learning but know what kind of light comes off the built-in flash and its AWFUL, most unflattering light you can give to your subjects. Off-camera lighting = best for its direction and depth it gives its subjects.

Here are 2 good examples of why off-camera creates flattering light rather than built-in flash.
Built-in Flash

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I don't always carry my speedlite with me so there are times I use it, especially in a back-lighting situatin. But the subject has to be close enough for it to work properly as it's not that strong. What I don't like is it gives a "point and shoot" look to a photo, as noted above. I do believe there is a company that makes a diffuser that slips over an on-board flash that might help some with the harshness.

CSMFoto wrote in post #13697645
No, and never. Groms use this(sorry for labels).

If he does not have an external flash (or just do not want to carry the extra weight), and it is too dark, what then? Just pray the high ISO photo would work out fine?

In that case, always bring around a white flash card so you can bounce the light.

There are times and places for the built in flash. For myself, I use the built in flash when taking informal / family gatherings (snapshots) and when I know for certain that high ISO will not be enough to get the job done.

However, as pieq314 had mentioned, I usually take one with high ISO and then followed by one with built in flash.

Hardly ever use the built in flash... It's underpowered, overheats easily, drains the camera's batteries worse than any other function and is in the worst possible place for redeye and ugly shadows. Plus it's often partly blocked by lens hoods.

On very rare occasion when I don't have an accessory flash with me or don't have time to set one up, I'll pop up the built in flash and use it. I'd guess that doesn't happen more than once or twice a year, though.

moltengold wrote in post #13697613
Hi
Just that
its a short question
Thanks

Definitely.

I don't have a pic handy showing the "harsh built-in flash" but the pic below is what I get when I insist on being a "pro" and refuse to use the flash.

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Rarely, but having said that I admit that I have a Canon 380EX that integrates exceptionally well with my 60D. I almost always have the 380EX with me so little if any reason to use the built-in.

The 380EX dates back to the mid 1990's, was my flash of choice with a film Elan IIe. I realize that later Speedlights have a lot more bells and whistle but this flash works exceptionally well with the 60D.

ALL the time, when I use flash...

a) As a fill-in light

Thanks all
good information for me
but now after what i read from you all
i feel sooooo sorry that i sold my 2 5D 2
come back to meeeeeeee plz i miss you so much
you are the only low light body

It is fine for fill in a pinch and of course, when triggering external units.

I use the built-in flash often, mostly as fill flash. I use manual mode, set exposure for existing light and dial down the flash compensation (-1/3 to -1 stop) to soften it's effect and make it less noticable. I use a external flash too, but the built-in flash is usefull at times.
...Terry