flashoff

Flashoff is a term used to describe the state of a device when its flash is disabled. There is no single standard definition for flashoff across industries, but it is most commonly encountered as a user‑interface label for turning off a camera’s or device’s flash.

In photography, flashoff refers to using ambient light instead of artificial illumination. When the flash is off, the camera relies on available light, which can produce a more natural look or prevent harsh shadows and red-eye. Achieving proper exposure under flashoff often requires adjusting settings such as ISO, aperture, or shutter speed. This can increase the risk of motion blur if the subject or camera moves during the longer exposure.

In consumer devices, flash off appears as an option in the flash settings of smartphones and digital cameras. Selecting flash off ensures the device will not fire the flash in any shot, regardless of lighting conditions. Users may choose this to maintain a consistent lighting style, save battery life, or comply with environments where flash is disruptive.

Other contexts note that not using a flash can be important for mood, continuity, or safety in certain filming or event settings, though flashoff is not a standardized technical term in these fields. The concept remains primarily a practical label for disabling artificial flash illumination rather than a distinct technology or protocol.

See also: Flash (photography), No flash, Ambient light.