When we’re starting out in photography, generally we’ll stick to natural light or use whatever light we have in our home. That is, until we can afford to slowly purchase or add more lighting options to what we have! While lighting elements may not be on top of your list, it is a good idea to have at least an idea of what’s what, and what each lighting option is good for!

We’ve compiled a list of 4 free guides from our friends at Photzy, so we can help you navigate lighting elements.

1. High Speed Flash – What, Why and How

Learning how to use your camera’s electronic flash, whether it’s the pop-up one on top of the camera or an accessory mounted version on the hot shoe, has always been hard for many amateur (and even some professional) photographers. Robin Nichols walks you through the common mistakes and how to avoid them and shows you how to properly use a flash. Download here →

2. Mastering The Art Of Gelled Lighting

If used with a little sensitivity, color gels can produce a wide range of looks and styles that can elevate and add interest to your images. Jo Plumridge will show you how to incorporate them into your photography to capture exciting and vibrant images. Download here →

3. How To Use Flash When Shooting Macro

While many macro photographers shoot outdoors and most prefer using natural light and not have to deal with more equipment, using a flash provides an effective means of getting enough light to use smaller apertures. Jason D. Little walks you through the advantages of adding a flash to your macro kit. Download here →

4. What Is Fill Light?

Adding a fill light enables you to reduce the contrast in a composition by filling in the shadows. Kevin Landwer-Johan will teach you in this free guide when to use a fill light, how to set your exposure when using a fill light, what to use as a fill light, and when not to use a fill light. Download here →

Looking for more additional readings or resources?

Check out this guide from our friends at Photzy – Understanding Light: Book 1

“Without light, there would be no photography. It’s as simple as that.” Kent DuFault kicks off this fantastic premium guide by establishing the importance of understanding light in photography. By mastering your understanding of light through this book, Kent will show you how to have the power to control the mood and feeling in your photos. Interested? Read more here.