Unlocking High Speed Flash Capabilities with Studio Strobes: A How-To Guide

High speed sync (HSS) technology has been gaining popularity in recent years, but many photographers have been hesitant to fully embrace it due to the limitations of speedlights. However, with the introduction of HSS features in powerful studio strobes, photographers now have more options to explore this exciting technology.

In a recent video by Jay P. Morgan, he demonstrates how photographers can achieve high speed flash capabilities with their older studio strobes. By using a compatible speedlight on the hotshoe to trick the camera into allowing HSS, and setting up the studio strobe as an optical slave, photographers can now capture fast-moving subjects with ease.

While some photographers may prefer using radio triggers for this technique, the key is to ensure that the flash duration of the strobe matches the shutter speed to avoid inconsistent results. It may take some trial and error to find the right settings for your specific equipment, but the results can be well worth the effort.

Of course, it’s important to consider whether investing in strobes with built-in HSS capabilities is the right choice for your photography needs. While workarounds like the one mentioned can be effective, they may not always be reliable in every situation.

Have you tried using workarounds to achieve HSS-like abilities with your strobes? Do you prefer using strobes with built-in high shutter speed capabilities, or do you rely on ND filters instead? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!