Too often photographers using point-and-shoot cameras let the automatic functions of their camera dictate the look of their images. While there are many instances where a flash is necessary to get any kind of exposure, there are a lot of situations where turning off the flash will offer some pleasing surprises. This photo was taken with a point-and-shoot camera with the setting on Program and the flash setting on Automatic. While it is a correctly exposed image, the light is harsh and casts shadows on the nearby background.

This photo was taken with the setting on Program and the flash turned off. While it may be considered a slightly underexposed image, it is much more appealing than using direct flash.

Photography is largely about light. In fact, the success of most images depends on having the right amount of light for a correct exposure.

But what defines good photography is often measured not only by the quantity of light but also by the quality. I want to offer a few suggestions this week, geared for point-and-shoot camera owners, for ways to improve the quality of light in their photography.

The majority of point-and-shoot cameras have flashes built into the camera body. Unless the operator turns this flash off in the menu of the camera, it will automatically fire in dark or underexposed areas. It is a great tool and can save many photographs from being underexposed when the quantity of light is low. But this type of direct flash can be unflattering and harsh.

To gain control over your flash, here are some ideas:

Tip No. 1 – Diffuse it

By taping a few pieces of material over your camera’s built-in flash, you can diffuse the light. This will create a softer light that can eliminate some of the harshness of direct flash.

You can experiment using things like cut pieces of paper coffee filters, foam, thin cotton, etc. You can even use some colored fabric or plastic pieces for some fun effects. For any of these diffusion materials you can keep your camera’s flash setting on “automatic.”

Tip No. 2 – Turn it off

Too often photographers using point-and-shoot cameras let the automatic functions of their camera dictate the look of their images. While there are many instances where a flash is necessary to get any kind of exposure, there are a lot of situations were turning off the flash will offer some pleasing surprises.

Keep in mind that with the flash off, the camera may automatically adjust to a slower shutter speed to compensate for the exposure and you will want to hold the camera as steadily as you can. By turning off the camera’s flash and using ambient light, only you will eliminate the harsh light and red-eye of direct flash. The resulting natural lighting, whether from a living room’s floor lamps or the glow of a campfire, should make your subject appear more natural and pleasing.