Light the subject using a flash

• 1
  The internal flash is built directly into the camera.Ryan McVay/Lifesize/Getty Images
  
  Select the flash setting on the camera. In this setting, the camera will flash every time you take a picture. The flash will light your subject, bringing him or her closer to the levels of brightness in the background. The flash will also engage in the auto setting, but only if the camera determines there is not enough light on the subject. If you are taking a picture of someone from far away, the flash may not engage.
  
  
• 2). Experiment with varying your distance from the subject to get the desired amount of light. Have the subject stand farther away from objects in the background to avoid casting unflattering or unnatural shadows.
  
  
• 3). An external flash is another option if you desire more control. An external flash is a separate piece of equipment that works mainly with SLR cameras. These professional and "prosumer" cameras offer more manual settings and the option of interchangeable lenses. Refer to your manual or contact the manufacturer to find out if your camera supports an external flash. Also, be sure to purchase a flash that is the same brand as your camera, or they may not be able to communicate properly.
  
  
• 4
  An external flash is a more powerful flash option.Pixland/Pixland/Getty Images
  
  Insert batteries and turn on your external flash unit before attaching it to the camera. Once the test light illuminates to show that it is working, turn the flash off. Attach the flash to the camera via the hot shoe. This metal socket is built into your SLR, and usually sits atop the built-in flash. Turn on your camera first, then your flash. Adjust your camera settings per your flash manual and begin taking pictures.
  
  
• 5). To light your subject from a different angle, attach your flash to the camera using a flash cord. This will allow you to place the flash anywhere within the length of the flash cord, while you remain in the same location to shoot your photo.
  
  
• 6). Position the flash inside a softbox if you find the light from the flash is too harsh. This fabric photography box will diffuse the light and make it appear more natural. Attach the flash to a tripod (or ask a friend to hold it) and position the flash to light the subject.
  
  

Reflect existing light

• 1
  Umbrella reflectors are also available at photography stores and can be attached to tripods.Jupiterimages/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
  
  Another way to light your subject is by reflecting existing light. You can do this by wrapping a layer of aluminum foil around a large piece of cardboard to create a reflector. You can also purchase a collapsible reflector at a photography store.
  
  
• 2). Angle the reflector so that it bounces light onto your subject. The subject should brighten when the reflector is catching the light correctly.
  
  
• 3). Prop the reflector in place or ask a friend to hold it while you take the photo. Experiment with different angles to change the lighting on your subject.