[cassbrower]

Hi Lacey!

Thank you so much—this is super helpful! I really appreciate the tip about using manual flash instead of TTL. I’d been leaving it on TTL while getting used to it, but I think that might be part of why I’ve had inconsistent results. I’ll play around with manual power settings next time I practice!

I’ll definitely check out the “black foamy thing”—I’d heard it mentioned before but hadn’t looked into it yet. I’m all for anything that keeps the light soft and subtle.

And I totally agree about the RP glass—my 35mm f/1.4 has been my go-to, and I’m realizing more and more how much of a difference that quality makes, especially in darker spaces.

Also YES to the M1 MacBook! It’s been solid so far, even with batch editing in Lightroom. I haven’t dipped into video much yet but love knowing Resolve might be an option if I do.

So excited to see what you create with the Z6iii! Please do share photos when you’re back—I’d love to see how it performs in a birth setting.

Thanks again for taking the time to share all this. I’m really grateful for this group too!

Cass Brower

[cassbrower]

Hi Rocío!

I feel the same way—I’ve been nervous about using flash during births for fear of disturbing the moment, but the results are just so clean and beautiful when it’s used thoughtfully. I’m also trying to grow more confident with bounced flash and would love to hear what settings others are using too.

Your lens lineup sounds amazing! I shoot with a Canon EOS RP and usually use my Sigma 35mm f/1.4 or the Canon 50mm f/1.8. I’m working with a Sunpak DF4000U flash right now and just starting to experiment with bouncing off the ceiling in a subtle way.

As for shutters, I’ve been using the electronic shutter most often to keep things quiet during labor, but I’ve been meaning to research how it compares with the mechanical in low-light situations. I’d love to know what you find out too!

Thank you for sharing—you’re not alone in this! I’m really excited to keep learning from everyone.

Warmly,
Cass Brower

[cassbrower]

Hi everyone! This is my first time posting in the discussions area, and I’m so grateful for this space—I’ve already learned so much just from reading through past threads.

I’m looking to elevate my birth photography this year and would love input from folks who’ve refined their gear setups for low-light and fast-paced birth environments.

Right now, I shoot with a Canon EOS RP and primarily use my Sigma 35mm f/1.4 and Canon 50mm f/1.8. I’ve just started using flash (a Sunpak DF4000U) and I’m exploring how to use it effectively in births without being disruptive—so far I’ve been bouncing it off the ceiling when possible.

I’d love to know:
• What lenses or accessories have made the biggest difference for you in birth settings?
• Are there flash modifiers or techniques that have helped keep your images consistent without overwhelming the space?
• Has anyone upgraded from the RP or a similar setup and found a big leap in low-light performance?

I edit with Lightroom and Photoshop on a MacBook Air (M1), and I’m always looking for ways to make my workflow more efficient and impactful.

Thanks in advance—excited to connect and learn from you all!

[Author]

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