Exposure / Learn by doing
Flash Sync Speed explained simply
What is “Flash Sync Speed”?
The fastest normal shutter speed at which a camera can expose the whole frame evenly with a conventional flash burst.
- 01Whole frame open
- 02Flash fires
- 03Even coverage
How do you use Flash Sync Speed practically?
A small exercise
Check your camera’s listed sync speed. Photograph a plain wall with flash at that speed and compare the next faster setting only if supported.
- Make a starting version and keep it so you can compare fairly.
- Try the change in the exercise. Keep unrelated choices steady where the exercise allows.
- Compare the result at the size your viewer will actually see. Write down what changed and whether it helped.
How does Flash Sync Speed solve a problem?
It helps diagnose a dark band caused by the shutter covering part of the frame during the flash.
What can go wrong?
Sync limits vary by camera and shutter mode. High-speed sync is a separate method with different power limits.
How do you turn the idea into a useful solution?
Start with the specific problem in your image or brief, try the exercise, and keep the version that meets that need. If the result is worse, return to the starting version and change one choice at a time.
Quick check: can you explain the three ideas in the diagram?
Whole frame open → Flash fires → Even coverage. Explain how each relates to the exercise. Then compare the starting version with your result and choose the one that meets your brief.
Related video lesson
Flash timing — Adorama
This related lesson gives wider context for the topic. Camera menus and software versions may differ from yours.
Loading the player connects to YouTube. You can also watch the lesson on YouTube.Keep exploring
Try the idea in a studio shoot
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