How can I reliably trigger a flash for high-speed splash photography?
Asked 1/27/2011
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2 answers
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I’ve experimented with high-speed photography in a dark room using a low-power flash to freeze motion, but most of my results come from repeated trial and error. I’d like a more repeatable way to capture a planned shot, such as dropping an Oreo into a glass of milk.
What techniques or setups can help trigger the flash at the right moment with less guesswork? I’m especially interested in practical methods for timing the flash more reliably than simply trying many shots.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
15y ago
2 Answers
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Because I am sometimes asked to do these sorts of shots as part of my business, where 'trial and error' is often incompatible with 'client budget,' I use a programmable intervalometer with a variety of sensors which give me that ability to capture the sorts of pictures where 'timing is everything.' Among other things over the years I've used such devices to capture images of bullets being fired, arrows flying, explosions, water drops, things being dropped into various types of liquid, 'shy' animals, and to 'slow down' industrial machines.
Although I've used many different systems, currently I use the Mumford Time Machine, and I've been very pleased with it.
While I realize that my answer may not appeal to everyone (DIYers, hobbyists, etc.), for someone with more money than time, or who is capturing these sorts of images professionally and doesn't have time to do it '600 times and pray one of them is usable,' there are definitely pro-level options that don't involve 'picking up a soldering iron.'
Originally by user2838. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user2838
15y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
A common reliable method is to let the flash—not the shutter speed—freeze the action.
Set up in a very dark room, use a long exposure, and fire the flash at the right instant. Keep the flash in manual mode at low power, because lower flash power produces a much shorter burst and freezes motion better.
For timing, people typically use a trigger system with sensors rather than pure luck. Two common options are:
- sound trigger: useful for events like breaking glass
- laser/beam trigger: useful for moving objects crossing a point
A programmable trigger or intervalometer can add a controlled delay between the sensor event and the flash, which is often what makes the shot repeatable. Some photographers use dedicated commercial trigger units; others build controllers with something like an Arduino.
For an Oreo splash specifically, you may not need extreme speeds compared with bullets or bursting balloons. You can also simplify timing by triggering the camera remotely while releasing the cookie in a consistent way, then refining the delay until the splash shape is where you want it.
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