Diffusers

[orchjoe]

I am thinking about getting a Canon 430EX Speedlite E-TTL for my XTI. Looking online I figured I would pick up a diffuser (save on shipping) to go along with it.

Can someone spit out some of the things they are good for/ what types are good for what???


By the way.. I got to give a thanks to Mark Barbieri. I found a previous thread where you posted a lot of info on flashes and it has been very helpful.

 

[MICKEY88]

I use the gary fong lightsphere, it works great

 

[handicap18]

I too have a Gary Fong Lightsphere II diffuser for my flash. I love the light it gives and use it probably 85-90% of time I'm using my flash. This particular one is good because it can be used in either horizontal or portrait when holding the camera. Just adjust the head of your flash accordingly and the Lightsphere will be in the upright position.

Some people don't like diffusers, but I prefer the diffused light. I think it bings out better color and gives skin tone a much more natural look.

I always used it when I'm taking portraits of the kids.

 

[mabas9395]

For those of you DIY types, I made this one for about $6. Works Great!

http://super.nova.org/DPR/DIY01/

 

[MICKEY88]

I should add that I like the gary fong lightshpere so much that I bought a second one for my second flash unit

 

[MarkBarbieri]

I'm glad that you found the earlier post helpful.

A diffuser spreads out the light. The size of the lightsource has a significant affect on the shadows that it casts. A small light source creates shadows with abrupt edges. A larger light source creates shadows with softer, more gradual edges. The latter is usually preferable to the former, especially with people.