Flash Photography 101 – Understanding Flash Controls

Are you new to flash photography and wondering what all those buttons and settings on your speedlight actually do? Join us for the first session in our Flash Photography Workshop Series, where we’ll break down the basics of flash controls in a beginner-friendly, hands-on environment.

This session is all about helping you get comfortable with your flash unit. While every model is a little different, the core principles are the same — and we’ll walk you through them together!

🗓 Date: Saturday, January 17th, 2026
🕚 Time: 11:00 AM
📍 Location: Flywheel Coworking
57 Union Street South, Concord, NC

🎯 What You’ll Learn:
In this session, we’ll cover the foundational features of most flashes/speedlights, including:

• Exposure/Power – Adjusting flash intensity
• Zoom – Controlling the spread of light
• Groups & Channels – Working with multiple lights
• Manual Mode – Taking full control
• TTL (Through-The-Lens) – Letting your camera help with exposure

This is a classroom-style session, but feel free to bring a small subject (like a toy or action figure) to practice on — we’ll also have time for some hands-on shooting!

📝 Things to Know:

• This is Lesson 1 in a multi-part series on using flash photography. More lessons will follow, covering different aspects of flash photography
• We’ll focus on flash functions only (not camera settings), since every camera model differs
• Our goal is to help you understand universal flash features — many of which also apply to studio strobes
• While we can’t teach every brand-specific menu, you’ll have the chance to talk with other photographers using the same gear

📷 What to Bring:

• Your camera
• Your flash or speedlight
• Camera triggers (optional, but helpful!)
• A toy or object to practice lighting on
• Good vibes and an eager mind!

👥 Who Should Attend?
Anyone who’s curious about flash photography but doesn’t know where to start. This class is built with beginners in mind, so don’t worry if you’ve never used a flash before — you’re in the right place.

📣 Please Note:
This is a community-organized educational meetup. All participants are responsible for their own equipment and safety. The Concord Photography & Videography Group and its organizers assume no liability for any damage to gear or injuries that may occur during the event. Please be respectful of others and their equipment.

💬 Let us know if you’re planning to attend — we’d love to have you join us for this exciting first session!