Do you use a bracket?

I just posted this on another forum and would like to try it here,too.

I've been experimenting with all types of devices for use at weddings to diffuse,prevent redeye,get the best(and most efficient) use of on-camera flash with my 580EX.
I've tried the Fong products(LS and Whaletail),the Demb Flipit,ABBC,the 580EX with it's small bounce card,and a couple of brackets.I still am not certain which I will end up using.
I like the quality of light from a bracket(and find the "diffusers" to sometimes be too soft).But the hassle of using the heavy bracket is a consideration.
Why do you "bracket-users" prefer them over the other devices.Also,what is your preferred method of shooting in a large,dark room where bounce surfaces are poor?Thanks for advice!

I use a couple of Fong Lightspheres, one clear, one white. I tried the bracket route, shot a couple of weddings with one, then went back to Lightspheres. Not only like the quality of light from them, but couldn't handle all the flipping and awkwardness of brackets. That was my biggest obstacle.....their handling (or lack thereof....).

I hate brackets. I've never used one, but they just look big and cumbersome.

Stroboframe Flip 350, sometimes with a Lumiquest softbox. Prevents side shadow.

ImagesByInku wrote in post #5491420
I hate brackets. I've never used one, but they just look big and cumbersome.

Interesting how you can hate something if you've never used it just by what it looks like.

Hahahaha Leo ....you got him .

Some brackets are cumbersome, some are not. Some are heavy and bulky, some are not. Some required that you reorient the flash head to keep it pointed at the ceiling for bounce, and some do not. Some are 'affordable' (under $100) and some are for someone serious about using brackets ($180+)

Custom Brackets and Newton Brackets are $180+ products that meet the needs of wedding professionals. Both meet the criteria above (except Custom is heavier and bulkier than the awesome Newton).

When bounce surfaces are poor, I like using mini softbox on the flash (mounted on a Newton).

I hate brackets...they are awkward, uncomfortable, heavy, ugly, and do not make much of a diff. at all. IMO.

mckc wrote in post #5491821
I hate brackets...they are awkward, uncomfortable, heavy, ugly, and do not make much of a diff. at all. IMO.

If you ONLY shoot with the camera in the "landscape" position - with the flash above the lens - I would agree that a flash bracket would not make much of a difference.

However, if you switch the camera back and forth between "landscape" and "portrait" position, using a decent bracket that can keep the flash above the lens will make a tremendous difference in the images, assuming the flash is contributing a significant percentage of the lighting of the subject(s).

I use a bracket when I'm getting paid, and when conditions indicate it.

A bracket can help improve shadow placement for more pleasing images and eliminate redeye. Again, it depends on the conditions.

A bracket is not a substitute for tupperware diffusers or other flash modifiers. But with a good understanding of basic lighting principles, a bracket and the right modifier can be used together quite effectively.

While brackets can be cumbersome, they also help to identify you as the "hired gun", which sometimes makes the job easier.

Wilt wrote in post #5491820
Some brackets are cumbersome, some are not. Some are heavy and bulky, some are not. Some required that you reorient the flash head to keep it pointed at the ceiling for bounce, and some do not. Some are 'affordable' (under $100) and some are for someone serious about using brackets ($180+)

Custom Brackets and Newton Brackets are $180+ products that meet the needs of wedding professionals. Both meet the criteria above (except Custom is heavier and bulkier than the awesome Newton).

When bounce surfaces are poor, I like using mini softbox on the flash (mounted on a Newton).

Wilt...

Agree with everything, particularly "awesome Newton".

Only difference is I prefer my $2. 9"x12" "softbox" (diffuser)
http://super.nova.org/​DPR/DIY01/

I started only using my bracket for special events. I, now, never leave home without it (except for longer range stuff....where I might exchange it for a Better Beamer). Even just shooting the g'kids, the image quality is so much better. I actual use the FR Newton for "everyday" and the CR Newton for "events".

I appoligize for the momentary hijack. Wilt do you have any shots you can post that you used your softbox set up on?

I have been considering purchasing one...

mckc wrote in post #5491821
I hate brackets...they are awkward, uncomfortable, heavy, ugly, and do not make much of a diff. at all. IMO.

Back on topic, they certainly do make a difference especially in portrait position...

I have a Custom Bracket's CB Junior that I use on my 20D.

What a solid piece it is and works extremely well.

My only complaint is that it blocks the battery cover and must be removed to replace the battery.

Yes, I have a battery grip that would eliminate that problem, but that it is far too much weight to deal with for me.

-Mario

DC Fan wrote in post #5491690
Stroboframe Flip 350, sometimes with a Lumiquest softbox. Prevents side shadow.

I just bought this today.. I let you know if I return it.. Have a wedding to do tomorrow.. I'll shoot with it tonite first though