How to Use the Slow Sync Mode on a Digital SLR

Many digital SLR cameras settings that allow the user to embellish photos by adjusting the flash and aperture. Manipulating the slow sync mode on your camera offers a very unusual style of flash photography.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Locate the slow sync option. Some models have the feature within the menu system, and others have a button on the rear of the camera body.

2. Use a tripod when using the slow sync mode on a digital camera to freeze everything within the frame. Tripods stop the common blur effect found on some photos due to unsteady hands holding the camera at very slow shutter speeds.

3. Blur the environment around the subject of the photo by hand holding the digital camera in slow sync flash mode. These shots offer an array of strange and differing effects.

4. Keep adjusting the shutter speeds of the digital camera to produce differing effects from the slow sync feature. Every event or shoot will present new ways to discover this technique.

5. Read over the camera's owner's manual to find the information regarding the flash options available to that particular model of digital camera.

Tips & Warnings

• See if the digital SLR camera offers a rear and front curtain sync mode. This is a feature found on higher-end digital cameras that allows the user more creative flash options.
• Use the fill flash mode if shooting outdoors in bright sunlight to avoid harsh shadows on the subject.
• Never point the digital SLR directly at the sun to avoid permanent image sensor damage.