Diffusers, diffusers and more diffusers/What to choose?

[SandraD]

Hello all,

I've always used natural light to take my photos but I'm now ready to start experimenting with flash. I figured I'd start with a diffuser; I didn't think it would be that hard to choose one. The list is endless and confusing! Everything from Bounce cards, bounce domes, bounce grids, etc..I've read a bit about soft boxes as well. What's a good "starter" diffuser for my 430EX?

[Wilt]

Search POTN using word 'tupperware' or 'Stoffen' or 'Lightsphere' for some discussions on this point, about shortcomings. Also search on 'Lumiquest' or 'Flipit'.

[alphonsis]

that would totally depend on what you are planning to shoot.

For example, studio portrait shooting, softboxes and umbrellas are nice. If you were shooting an event and on the move, a smaller diffuser on your flash such as a sto-fen or a gary fong would make more sense.

[Wilt]

that would totally depend on what you are planning to shoot.

For example, studio portrait shooting, softboxes and umbrellas are nice. If you were shooting an event and on the move, a smaller diffuser on your flash such as a sto-fen or a gary fong would make more sense.

Let me re-emphasize, "Search POTN using word 'tupperware' or 'Stoffen' or 'Lightsphere' for some discussions on this point, about shortcomings."

[SkipD]

If you were shooting an event and on the move, a smaller diffuser on your flash such as a sto-fen or a gary fong would make more sense.There are MANY situations where the above (commonly called 'tupperware' diffusers here) are virtually useless. Unless there are nearby white walls and ceiling to bounce light from the plastic diffuser (which blasts light in virtually every direction from the flash unit) back toward the subject.

My personal recommendation for a very versatile modifier for an on-camera flash (such as a Speedlite) is the LumiQuest Promax System (http://www.lumiquest.com/products/promax-system.htm).

Sandra - follow Wilt's suggestion for searching the forums for a lot more related information.

[Curtis N]

http://performancephoto.smugmug.com/photos/193799451_LpEUJ-L.jpg

[SandraD]

Curtis- great idea! worth a try and great links that I will read up on.

[evilryu530]

im going to try curtis' idea. the larger light source, the softer the shadows. this makes sense. i will go get me a piece of foam board and mount it on my flash. save the 15 bucks and get a lens hood instead.

[Curtis N]

Well it's hardly my idea. It's an old technique that photogs have been using ever since flash units with tilting heads have been around - 40 years maybe?

The concept of bounced flash is relatively simple. Throw most of the light at the ceiling for soft, natural-looking general light. Throw a little bit forward to fill eye sockets and provide catchlights. Simple in concept but more difficult in execution, because you need to manage the ratio of ceiling light to direct light.

But I recommend the index card technique because it's quite inexpensive, takes up almost no space in your bag and can be moved up or down to manage the amount of light it catches.

After you've used the index card for awhile, you can take the knowledge you gain from that experience and maybe buy something a bit more versatile.

[evilryu530]

i built one earlier. some velcro. a card stock piece of paper. black on outside white on inside. works like a charm.