The most commonly overlooked fact is that a "diffuser" is only as effective as its surface area size. A diffuser same size as flash tube/reflector will not change the quality of light ( although some will increase the flash dipersion angle which is good for wide angle lenses, but you still have in effect a point light source, not a soft one).
The key is to get the largest one in terms of surface area that you can manage for the greatest improvement in the softness of the light. Of course there is a huge price to be paid, the diffuser/ reflector eats up a lot of flash power efficiency and you will need a more powerful flash and or faster film speed compared to "straight" flash. JCO -----Original Message----- From: Don Sanderson [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Wednesday, November 24, 2004 8:39 AM To: PDML Subject: Flash Diffusers, what do you use? What flash diffusers have you found to be the: 1.) Easiest to use. 2.) Most effective given the ease of use. 3.) Most portable as far as space and sturdiness so they don't get mangled riding in a crowded bag. I'm looking for something to use on the AF360FGZ and the AF500FTZ. Something I'll actually use because I don't have to fuss with it for 5 minutes to get it mounted. And something that actually makes a worthwhile improvement in eliminating that *lovely* harsh "flash look". I have a bounce card that doesn't do very much. I also have several "velcro on" types that are a PITA to get mounted. So far I think I've done just as well with some tissue paper and a rubber band. I hate flash with a *passion* but my less than steady hands make it essential many times. All suggestions welcome, doesn't matter whether it's something to buy or build. TIA Don
