Flash Sync Speed and High-Speed Sync, Done Properly
The fastest shutter speed a camera can use with flash, and the high-speed sync mode that works around that limit.
Imogen Clarke
What is at stake
Going past sync speed produces black bands across images, and knowing the options lets photographers use flash outdoors in bright light.
The playbook
- Know the sync speed of each camera body
- Use high-speed sync for wide apertures in daylight
- Use neutral density filters as an alternative
- Test before important shoots
- Allow for reduced flash power with HSS
Where it goes wrong
Avoid:
- Exceeding sync speed without HSS
- Relying on HSS for distant subjects
- Assuming every trigger supports HSS
- Skipping test frames
The numbers behind it
| Measure | Figure |
|---|---|
| Sync speed | often around 1/200 second on cameras with focal-plane shutters |
| Black bands | appear when shutter speed exceeds sync speed |
| High-speed sync | pulses the flash to allow faster shutter speeds at lower power |
| Leaf shutters | can sync at much faster speeds |
Getting outside help
When to hand it over: Bring in help when mixing flash with bright outdoor light.
Where this comes from
- Adobe Help Center — Photography basics
- Capture One — Learning resources for product photography
The figures and practices above come from the sources listed.
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