Flash Photography 101: The Best External Flashes for Stunning Results

22 June 2025

Flash photography can be intimidating, especially if you're just starting out or have only relied on your camera’s built-in flash. But let’s be honest, the pop-up flash on most cameras isn’t exactly lighting up your world in the best way possible (pun intended). If you’re looking to take your photography to the next level, investing in an external flash could be the answer to getting those stunning, professional-looking shots that leave your audience asking, “How’d they do that?”

In this guide, we’re diving into the basics of flash photography and exploring some of the best external flashes on the market that can help you capture breathtaking images. Whether you’re shooting portraits, events, or even experimenting with creative lighting, we’ve got you covered.

Why Use an External Flash?

Alright, let’s start with a simple question: why should you even bother with an external flash when your camera already has one built in? Well, here’s the thing—built-in flashes are often too harsh and lack flexibility. They fire straight on, creating unflattering shadows, red-eye, and washed-out subjects. In other words, they’re not exactly doing your photos any favors.

External flashes, on the other hand, give you more control over how light interacts with your subject. You can adjust the angle, bounce the light off walls or ceilings for softer, more natural illumination, and even use multiple flashes for creative effects. It’s like upgrading from a basic desk lamp to a full-blown studio setup—suddenly, everything looks better.

Benefits of External Flashes:

- More Power: External flashes are far more powerful than built-in ones, allowing you to shoot in low-light conditions without cranking up your ISO (and adding noise to your photos).
- Better Control: You can adjust the direction, intensity, and spread of the light, giving you more creative freedom.
- Bounce and Diffuse: Bounce the light off surfaces or use diffusers to soften shadows and avoid that dreaded harsh flash look.
- Off-Camera Flash: Many external flashes can be used off-camera, opening up a whole world of creative lighting setups.

Key Features to Look for in an External Flash

Not every external flash is created equal. Before you rush out to get one, there are a few key features you’ll want to consider. These features will determine how versatile the flash is, and whether it suits your specific photography needs.

1. Guide Number (GN)

The guide number is a measure of a flash’s power. In simple terms, the higher the guide number, the more powerful the flash. If you’re planning to shoot in larger spaces or need to illuminate subjects from a distance, you’ll want a flash with a high GN. For smaller spaces or closer subjects, a lower GN may suffice.

2. TTL (Through the Lens) Metering

TTL is a super handy feature that automatically adjusts the flash’s output based on the lighting conditions of your scene. Essentially, it communicates with your camera to figure out how much light is needed to properly expose the shot. If you’re not a fan of constantly fiddling with settings, TTL can be a lifesaver.

3. Recycling Time

This refers to how quickly the flash can recharge and be ready to fire again after taking a photo. Faster recycling times are essential if you’re shooting action or events where you need to take multiple shots in quick succession. No one likes waiting for their gear to catch up, right?

4. Swivel and Tilt Head

A flash with a swivel and tilt head allows you to bounce the light off walls, ceilings, or other surfaces, giving you more control over how the light falls on your subject. This is crucial for achieving softer, more natural results (and avoiding the dreaded “deer in the headlights” look).

5. Wireless Capability

If you want to get really creative, look for a flash with wireless capabilities. This allows you to use the flash off-camera, either as a standalone light source or in combination with other flashes. It opens up a whole world of lighting possibilities, from dramatic side lighting to creating a soft, natural glow.

The Best External Flashes for Stunning Results

Now that we’ve covered the basics of what to look for, let’s get into the juicy part—picking the right external flash. Here are some of the best options on the market right now, each with its own strengths and ideal use cases.

1. Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT

If you’re a Canon shooter, the Speedlite 600EX II-RT is like the Ferrari of external flashes. It’s fast, powerful, and packed with features that’ll make any pro photographer drool. With a guide number of 60 (impressive, right?), this flash is perfect for shooting in large spaces or at a distance. Plus, it has TTL metering, a quick recycling time, and full wireless capability.

The 600EX II-RT also has a wide swivel and tilt range, making it easy to bounce light exactly where you need it. Whether you’re shooting portraits, weddings, or events, this flash will give you stunning, professional-quality results.

2. Nikon SB-700 AF Speedlight

Nikon users, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered too. The Nikon SB-700 is a versatile, mid-range flash that offers a great balance of power and ease of use. With a guide number of 38, it’s not as beefy as the Canon 600EX, but it’s more than enough for most scenarios.

One of the SB-700’s standout features is its simple and intuitive interface, making it a great option for photographers who are new to external flashes. It also supports TTL metering, has a fast recycling time, and offers wireless functionality. Whether you’re bouncing light indoors or shooting in tricky lighting conditions, the SB-700 delivers reliable and consistent results.

3. Godox V1

The Godox V1 is an absolute game-changer in the world of external flashes, thanks to its round head design. Unlike traditional rectangular flashes, the Godox V1’s round head produces a more natural, evenly spread light, which can make a huge difference in portrait photography.

With a guide number of 28, it’s not the most powerful flash on the market, but its soft, flattering light makes it a favorite among portrait and wedding photographers. The V1 also comes with TTL metering, a built-in lithium-ion battery (no more AA batteries—hallelujah!), and wireless functionality. Plus, its recycling time is lightning fast, so you won’t miss a moment.

4. Sony HVL-F60RM

If you’re a Sony shooter, the HVL-F60RM is worth every penny. It’s one of the most powerful flashes for Sony cameras, with a guide number of 60, making it perfect for shooting in large venues or outdoor settings. This flash features TTL metering and wireless functionality, and it boasts one of the fastest recycling times in its class.

The HVL-F60RM also has a unique “Quick Shift Bounce” feature that allows you to tilt the flash head 90 degrees left or right without moving the camera. This is great for photographers who need to quickly adjust their lighting without missing a beat.

5. Yongnuo YN560-IV

Last but not least, let’s talk about the Yongnuo YN560-IV. This budget-friendly flash is a fantastic option for beginners or photographers who don’t want to break the bank. While it lacks TTL metering, it’s fully manual, which gives you total control over your lighting. With a guide number of 58, it’s surprisingly powerful for its price point.

The YN560-IV also has wireless capabilities, making it a great choice for off-camera flash setups. And while its recycling time isn’t as fast as some of the higher-end models, it still performs admirably for the price. If you’re just starting out with flash photography and want to get a feel for manual controls, this is a solid starting point.

Tips for Using External Flashes

Once you’ve got your external flash, the real fun begins—learning how to use it effectively. Here are a few quick tips to help you get the most out of your new gear:

1. Bounce the Light

Instead of pointing the flash directly at your subject, try bouncing it off a nearby wall or ceiling. This diffuses the light and creates a softer, more natural look without harsh shadows.

2. Use a Diffuser

A simple diffuser can help soften the light even further, preventing your subject from looking like they’re caught in a spotlight. You can buy diffusers specifically designed for your flash, or even DIY one with a piece of white fabric or paper.

3. Experiment with Off-Camera Flash

If your flash supports wireless functionality, try using it off-camera for more creative lighting. You can place the flash at different angles to create dramatic shadows or highlight specific parts of your subject.

4. Play with Flash Power

Don’t be afraid to adjust the power of your flash. Sometimes a subtle pop of light is all you need to lift the shadows, while other times you may want to crank it up to overpower bright ambient light.

Conclusion

Flash photography doesn’t have to be scary or complicated. With the right external flash and a bit of practice, you can take your photos from flat and boring to dynamic and stunning. Remember to look for key features like guide number, TTL metering, and wireless capability when choosing your flash, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different lighting setups. Whether you’re shooting portraits, events, or just messing around with creative lighting, an external flash is one of the best investments you can make in your photography journey.