My Camera Is Causing Flash Failure

Some flashes on cameras cause problems with photos.

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Almost all digital cameras come with a built-in flash mechanism. The flash works automatically based on the camera's settings, though you can program some cameras to enabled or disabled the flash during photo shoots. If your camera is not performing properly, it can cause the flash to fail or malfunction.

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In some cameras, the flash mechanism pops up from the top of the camera. However, if you've spilled anything sticky on the camera, it might keep the flash from popping up, as the sticky substance might have made the flash stuck in the closed position. Another possibility is that the motor that pops the flash up might be malfunctioning.

Bulb Issues

Your camera flash may also be experiencing bulb issues. Most camera flashes are filled with xenon gas. The electrical charge produced by your camera combines with the gas to produce a flash of light. If the bulb is cracked or damaged, this process won't work. Also, it is possible to burn out the capacitors that cause the flash to fire, which would in turn disable the flash mechanism altogether.

External Flash

One way to combat flash failure on your camera is to use an external flash, a camera accessory that's usually sold separately. It connects to your camera so the two work together during photography shoots. External flashes are often preferred by professional photographers, because it gives them more control over what direction the flash comes from, as well as the level of light it produces. However, the extra expense and need to carry additional equipment might be a turn off for casual or novice photographers.

Repair

While it is possible to repair a camera flash yourself, if you're not familiar with the process, it's best to take it to a camera repair shop or send it back to the manufacturer to have it professionally repaired. Your camera's internal components are small and intricate, and a slip of the hand can do further damage. Also, you risk severe electrical shock when working with the camera's flash mechanism and flash capacitor.

ReferencesPlanet of the Web: How Camera Flash Photography and Digital Flash Units WorkDePaul University: Flash (Photography)Steve's Digicams: How to Replace Your Digital Camera Flash BulbCamera Repair: Important Warning: Camera Flash Capacitor Shock!Digital Photography School: An Introduction to External Flash UnitsPhoto Credit Ryan McVay/Lifesize/Getty ImagesRead Next:

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