Camera Flashes
Camera flashes, also known as speedlights or external flash units, are essential tools for controlling light in photography, especially in low-light conditions or when creative lighting is needed. Whether you’re shooting portraits, events, macro, or product photography, a dedicated flash offers far more power, control, and versatility than a built-in camera flash. Since 1988, we’ve helped photographers light their subjects better with the right flashes, modifiers, and accessories tailored to their style and setup.
- Camera Flashes
Neewer Z880-C 2.4G 76Ws TTL Camera Flash Speedlite Compatible with Canon, Upgraded UI, Adjustable Modeling Lamp, TTL/M Quick Switch TCM Key, 1/8000s HSS 7.2V/3000mAh Battery 600 Full Power Flash
Original price was: £201.99.£136.99Current price is: £136.99. *View On Amazon* - Camera Flashes
NEEWER NW700-S TTL Flash Speedlite Compatible with Sony DSLR Cameras, 1/8000s High Speed Sync Speedlight, 1/1-1/256 Output, TCM Function, 230 Full Power Flash, 0.1-2.7s Fast Recycling Flashlight
Original price was: £96.99.£93.99Current price is: £93.99. *View On Amazon* - Camera Flashes
NEEWER Z160 SE Camera Flash, 20Ws GN15 6000±200K Speedlight, Manual 1/1-1/128 Power & S1/S2 Mode 3.7V/1200mAh Battery 650 Full Power Studio Light, Compatible with Canon Nikon Sony Fuji Olympus Cameras
Original price was: £50.99.£45.99Current price is: £45.99. *View On Amazon*
Why Use a Camera Flash?
✅ Provides additional light in dim or poorly lit environments
✅ Enables high-speed shooting in indoor or low-light settings
✅ Gives full control over lighting direction and intensity
✅ Improves portrait quality with flattering shadows and catchlights
✅ Freezes motion in sports, action, and dance photography
✅ Enables off-camera lighting for dramatic, professional results
Whether you’re shooting on-location or in the studio, a flash gives you more control over exposure and mood.
Types of Camera Flashes
| Flash Type | Best For | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Speedlight / Hot-Shoe Flash | General use, portrait, event photography | Mounts on camera or off-camera via trigger |
| Ring Flash | Macro, beauty, and product photography | Even light, reduces shadows |
| Studio Flash / Monolight | Studio work, large-scale setups | Plug-in power, very powerful, often with modifiers |
| On-Camera LED Panel | Video, vlogging, constant lighting | Adjustable color temp and brightness |
| Flash Triggers / Receivers | Off-camera flash setups | Wireless control of multiple lights |
Key Flash Features to Consider
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Guide Number (GN) | Measures power output—higher GN = stronger flash |
| TTL (Through-The-Lens) Metering | Automatic flash power based on your camera’s light reading |
| Manual Mode | Full control over flash output (great for consistency) |
| High-Speed Sync (HSS) | Enables flash at fast shutter speeds (1/1000s+) |
| Bounce & Swivel Head | Direct light for creative control via ceilings or walls |
| Wireless Triggering | Fire flash remotely—ideal for multi-light setups |
| Zoom Head | Adjusts beam width based on lens focal length |
| Recycling Time | How fast the flash is ready to fire again |
| Built-in LED AF Assist | Helps autofocus in low-light conditions |
Recommended Flash Units by Brand
🔹 Canon
Canon Speedlite EL-100 – Entry-level TTL bounce flash
Canon Speedlite 430EX III-RT – Mid-range with radio triggering
Canon Speedlite EL-1 – Flagship, professional-grade performance with Li-ion battery
🔹 Nikon
Nikon SB-500 – Compact TTL flash with LED light
Nikon SB-700 – Versatile workhorse for advanced amateurs
Nikon SB-5000 – Pro flash with radio control and cooling system
🔹 Sony
Sony HVL-F28RM – Compact with TTL and wireless control
Sony HVL-F60RM II – Pro-level flash with fast recycle time and HSS
Godox V1 for Sony – Round head TTL flash with soft light quality
🔹 Third-Party Options (All Brands)
Godox V860 III – TTL + manual, rechargeable battery, built-in radio trigger
Godox TT685 II – Budget-friendly TTL flash for all major brands
Nissin i60A – Compact, powerful flash with wireless TTL
Profoto A10 – Premium round-head TTL flash with built-in AirX (Bluetooth control)
Accessories to Enhance Flash Photography
✅ Diffusers – Soften light (e.g., dome diffusers, softboxes)
✅ Bounce Cards – Redirect light for softer shadows
✅ Color Gels – Add color effects or match ambient light
✅ Flash Triggers – Control multiple off-camera flashes wirelessly
✅ Light Stands & Brackets – Mount flashes off-camera for more control
✅ Rechargeable Batteries – Faster recycle times, more consistent power
Recommended Flash Setups by Use Case
| Shooting Scenario | Recommended Flash Gear |
|---|---|
| Weddings & Events | Godox V1 / Canon 430EX III + bounce diffuser |
| Portrait Photography | Sony HVL-F60RM II + umbrella or softbox |
| Product / Macro | Ring flash (e.g., Godox MF-R76), tabletop LED panel |
| Off-Camera Lighting | Godox TT685 + XPro Trigger + light stand |
| On-the-Go Vlogging | Small TTL flash with bounce or compact LED panel |
| Studio Work | Monolights (Godox AD600, Profoto B10), wireless sync |
Expert Tips for Using Camera Flashes
Bounce off ceilings or walls for softer, more natural light
Use a diffuser or softbox to avoid harsh shadows
Control ambient light with camera settings, and let flash shape your subject
Use TTL in fast-moving situations, switch to manual for consistency
Set up off-camera flash to create more dynamic lighting angles
Experiment with gels to add mood or match mixed lighting environments
FAQ: Camera Flashes
Is a flash necessary if I shoot with a fast lens?
Yes—especially indoors or at night. Flash provides directional light and fill even when a lens can “see” in low light.
Can I use any flash with my camera?
No—flashes must be compatible with your camera’s TTL system (Canon, Nikon, Sony, etc.). Manual flashes work universally but require manual control.
What is High-Speed Sync (HSS)?
HSS allows you to use flash above your camera’s max sync speed (usually 1/200s–1/250s), enabling wide apertures in bright conditions or freezing motion.
Is it better to use flash on or off the camera?
Off-camera flash gives you more creative control and professional results. Use wireless triggers or cables to position your flash independently.
What’s the difference between TTL and manual flash?
TTL auto-adjusts flash power based on camera metering. Manual flash gives consistent output you control manually—ideal for controlled environments.
Lighting Experts Since 1988
Whether you’re just starting with flash or building a multi-light rig, we stock the most reliable camera flashes, triggers, and accessories from Canon, Nikon, Sony, Godox, Profoto, Nissin, and more. Our team can help you match the right flash to your camera system and shooting style. Shop online or visit us in-store for expert advice, hands-on demos, and lighting gear you can trust to illuminate your best work.
Halloween or Christmas, this is where you will find all of our Seasonal Products
Hiking or Walking this Winter, here are our Outdoor Clothing Products
Amazon Associate Disclosure
As an Amazon Associate, the Yorkshire Outdoor Activity Park may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. Please know that this does not affect reviews, content, or this site's opinions of products, services, manufacturers, partners, or merchants. The mission of the Yorkshire Outdoor Activity Park is to provide the best functionality for this site's users, regardless of any potential affiliate commissions.