Photo taken against direct sunlight without a light diffuser
The ability to diffuse light from a flash is a must-have for any photographer. Light diffusion is the difference between a professional photograph and an amateur one. Diffusing a flash disburses light so that it's even and shadows are minimal.
Builld Your Own Light Diffuser
A store-bought flash diffuser can be expensive. Fortunately, your kitchen offers all the items you need to create your own.
The object is to cover the flash with an opaque shield for softer, more-even lighting that minimizes shadows. This can be achieved in several ways. You can cut the bottom off a plastic milk jug and attach it with elastic or Velcro to the flash heads For less bulk, a large plastic, clear cup; wax paper or bubble wrap; scissors and two elastics will work.
First, cut out the bottom off the cup and discard it. Cut a slit in either side of the cup so that you can slide it over your flash head, then secure it with a rubber band. Cut a piece of wax paper or bubble wrap and cover the open lid of the cup. Also secure that with a rubber band.
How it works
Flash photography can create harsh shadows on the subject's face. While the subject's face is lit, the background is often dark or overexposed, depending on the time of day. Or, if the subject is before a backdrop, the flash will leave stark shadows on the backdrop.
Flash diffusion sends the light bouncing in all directions, creating an omni light source.
If you point the flash with its diffuser to the ceiling inside, the light will spread generously across the ceiling and bounce down onto the subject and the subject's surroundings for an evenly lit, natural effect without shadows. Outside, direct the flash head with its diffuser directly at the subject or at an angle.
Experiment
Do not hesitate to work with different materials for varied effects in light diffusion. Place amber plastic wrap at the lid of an opaque cup for a subject with a golden glow. Wrap aluminum foil over the lid of the cup (with a whole in the center) to light large areas such as reception halls.
Tags: flash, diffuser, bubble wrap, flash head, flash with, paper bubble, paper bubble wrap, rubber band, subject face, with diffuser, with rubber
