Flash Lightsphere

form wrote in post #6130928
I use my lightsphere on faces that aren't sweaty. It produces a really unpleasant specular issue with moist skin compared to an umbrella or soft box.

I've been considering lumiquest promax system.

Do people get that nervous when they see you coming with a camera?

No, it's las vegas!

form wrote in post #6130986
No, it's las vegas!

he he!

Lumiquest makes some wonderful products - I've been using their pocket bounce devices for about 20 years; fold flat, fit in a pocket, light weight and inexpensive.

form wrote in post #6130928
I use my lightsphere on faces that aren't sweaty. It produces a really unpleasant specular issue with moist skin compared to an umbrella or soft box.

I've been considering lumiquest promax system.

I just don't know if the promax will be significantly better than the lightsphere; if it would, then I'd probably get it. If not, then there's little point in switching, even for compactness. I use the lightsphere when I have to work fast and can't use an umbrella and off camera flash.

They pretty much work on two different principles. The Lumiquest Pocket bounce is like a giant index card, creating a larger light source and directing it forward. It is not dependant on surfaces to bounce off of.

The LS is an omnidirectional diffusion device. It reduces the output of you flash, but diffuses it in all directions and works better when close to walls and ceilings. They are both light modifiers, but offer distinctly different types of output.

form wrote in post #6131102
I just don't know if the promax will be significantly better than the lightsphere; if it would, then I'd probably get it. If not, then there's little point in switching, even for compactness. I use the lightsphere when I have to work fast and can't use an umbrella and off camera flash.

The LS will work about the same in landscape or portrait. The Lumiquest is definitely better in landscape unless it's used it with a bracket.

I gave my cloud and clear lightspheres away and plus my whale tail reporter..guess what..that photographer is trying to rid himself of them also....very disappointed in them...if you want to ever try one get one of the knock offs for about 19 bucks.

Looks like a Gary Fong associate.

Photogreyph wrote in post #6129340
I've used the Gary Fong Lightsphere for a couple of years now and its performed as advertised. I've used it for portraits....family gatherings, etc. No complaints. I like it way better than the Sto-Fen, much better coverage and light dispersal. Its sole use isn't to "bounce" the flash.......when used outside it does a great job of dispersing the light as well.

I plan to upgrade to the "Whale-Tail" in the near future. I love to use it on multiple slave units.....

Sometimes you actually get what you pay for. Good luck.

form wrote in post #6130928
I use my lightsphere on faces that aren't sweaty. It produces a really unpleasant specular issue with moist skin compared to an umbrella or soft box.

I've been considering lumiquest promax system.

I own and use the Lumiquest Promax system and wouldn't trade it for anything.. a fabulous product to say the least.

Titus213 wrote in post #6130611
The options are to experiment with bounced flash indoors. It requires no attachment to your flash unit. Other than that check out www.abetterbouncecard.​com

Outdoors I shoot straight on and adjust with FEC.

Thanks Dave

Have you looked at this http://www.dealextreme​.com/details.dx/sku.48​20 its a fraction of the cost of the Lightsphere.

sadowsk2 wrote in post #6155685
I own and use the Lumiquest Promax system and wouldn't trade it for anything.. a fabulous product to say the least.

I have both systems and in pictures taken in identical situations, I cannot tell the difference. The main difference is that the Lightsphere is better in portait mode. I don't even think the Lumiquest can be done well at all in portrait with a 430EX. I think much of the bad press for the Lightsphere is directed at Fong himself. He may be hard to take, but his product works and is easy to use. I've gotten over his personality.

I've been impressed with it in the last year I've had mine. I experiment with bare/bounced flash for specific lighting effects. Or if I want balanced light that seems to fill the room, I go with the lightsphere. I've experimented by slapping on a super wide angle lens and taking a shot in complete blackness to get an idea of how exactly the light spreads out. I was surprised to see, just as Photogreyph pointed out, does just as it advertises.

The lightsphere is rather heavy sitting on top of your flash. I don't mean heavy for you, but for the flash's head. If you are not careful, you might break off your flash with that thing sitting on top.

On the other hand, it's perfect to use as a candies holder...I was thinking of cake, but it was too messy and the kids love it.

My recommendation is just learn to bounce, outdoor just straight on.