Even when most cameras from small compact ones to the popular entry-level DSLRs have built-in flashes, it is always better to opt for an external flash. Although built-in flashes are more convenient to use since it does not have to be set up during shoots and it does not add more weight to what might already be a heavy lens and body combination, an external flash will indulge the photographer to have more control over his shots.

With an external flash, one can customize lighting situations that is not possible with built-in flashes. Built-in flashes are only required to produce one form of flash for all lighting situations, most of the time producing a harsher and harder form of light than what is required.

To add to this, the built-in flash lacks the power needed for difficult lighting situations. Low lighting is one of the hassles of most shoots and the external flash remedies this by being more flexible with its position unlike a built-in flash which is completely parallel to the direction of the lens.

If you are searching for a suitable flash for your camera, it may be helpful to check out the Best Selling Flashes list at Amazon.

Reduction of the Red Eye

Built-in cameras usually bring about the red eye because the source of the light is very near the lens of the camera. Although most companies now build their units with a red eye reduction system, it is still not enough and some subjects still come out like vampires. You do NOT want that to happen often especially if you only have one take on the subjects at hand.

Moving Light Away from the Lens

Because of cases where red eye usually damages the quality of the photos, external flashes help eliminate this because of its ability to be moved away from the subject. It can be moved away from the unit and several can be used to imitate the effect of multiple studio lighting.

Size and Portability

Although external flashes are admittedly heavier than compact flashes and cannot be built in when the camera body is lighter than the flash unit, this can serve as its advantage rather than a detriment. Its size produces a more powerful and softer light ten times than what a built-in flash can and because it cannot be placed in lighter units, the photographer now has to think of ways on how to use it away from the camera, giving him more freedom for experimentation.

Flash photography is another body in photography altogether. It requires practice and a constant add to knowledge for it to be properly used seriously and professionally. Because you can rotate the external flash, the light can be bounced off in different walls and directions (illuminating the subject at the top, side or front), providing a different effect to the subject all the time.

In short, to improve the quality of your photographs, an external flash is a wise investment. You will know if your camera is built to have an external flash if it has a hot shoe in its body. This is usually found on top of the unit. A hot shoe provides the contacts needed for an external flash. Hold on there though. Not all forms of external flashes are compatible with your camera. Check your manuals first whether your unit can hold an automatic flash or just a manual flash. Whichever it is, an external flash is still the better option than its counterpart.