Made my own ring flash...check it out

I saw one of those chip trays with the built in bowl in the center at the dollar store and though "hey, i bet I could make a ring flash with that". I cut out part of the center and a hole for the flash. Lined the whole inside with foil and covered it with a sheer material. 20 bucks and a few hours later (Plus 70 bucks for the off camera cord. I know I could get it for 50 at B&H, but I was really impatient and wanted to see if this thing worked. I just went to a local store to get ripped off.) Here it is. I have a feeling that is is a little small, probably should have a bigger diameter. Anybody know what setting I should have my flash set at for this thing. I plan on painting the bracket black and intalling a grip to make it more comfortable. Also, maybe a way to mount it on a tripod. The camera can be adjusted forwards or back, so I can us it with different lenses. Hopefully I'll get a chance to try it out this weekend.

not a bad job. any shots yet?

hopefully tomorrow!

It is a little ugly, didn't know what do do with the excess diffuser material, I should have used velcro I guess.

Great job on the DIY project, bet it would look sweet once it's finished. Love the way you make the brackects to secure everything together.

Try the automatic ETTL mode first, use FEC if needed. For mounting on tripod, is there any room left at the end the bottom of lever behind the 580 mounting poit? Could tap a 1/4 20 thread on it and you will be all set.

I too want to see the test shots. Could you include a picture of ring flash itself when firing?

Ingenius device! I like the bracket, but have you got room to use the zoom on the lens? - and where does your chin fit in?

I did leave some room for a tripod mound at the bottom.

I took some shot in a mirror. I'll post them a little later.

TeeJay wrote:
Ingenius device! I like the bracket, but have you got room to use the zoom on the lens? - and where does your chin fit in?

I do have room for my room, and there should be room to use a few different lenses, as long as they aren't too long. I looks like the bracket would get in the way of your chin, but surprisingly it doesn't. I have a realy big head and it doesn't even touch my face.

I cant wait to see some shots from it. You should apply for a Patent on your prototype if it works better than other devices desgined to make a flash less harsh. I dont think there are any other devices that go all the way around the lens like yours does?

There are companies that make real ones. Look here. http://www.bhphotovide​o.com …flash&image.x=0​&image.y=0
They are a little pricey though. I have seen a couple other DIY projects like this one on the net. This one is similar to the "planter style" ring light.

Here is a pic I took in a mirror about 15-20 ft away. The pic isn't very good, but you can see the flash going off. Because it is quite small, I think it would be good for headshots, but maybe not full body. I won't know though until I actualy try it on someone. Thanks

Thanks for the test pic. The light looks like is evenly distributed inside the ring.

Once it's mounted on a tripod, the camera could be removed and now you have a small softbox too. Ingenius device indeed.

Love this idea. Thanks for sharing with us. I will never look at a chip tray the same again!

let me know if you get a hot spot near the flash head area.

C'mon, c'mon you have me eager to see the results of this fancy new device. Looks like a great idea.

wow, great concept.