Flash Diffusers

[Biomech]

I was speaking to a photographer a while ago, who made a very valid point. People put these covers on their flashes to "soften" the light, or take off the edge/intensity. But infact the cover is just blocking light; so you're using more power for less light.

What are everyones thoughts on this?

[RichardTaylor]

You may find this DPS thread of interest.

Flash diffuser comparison

[Jim Poor]

Well, of course putting anything in front of the light is going to reduce the quantity of it that reaches the subject, however the gain in quality usually outweighs the loss.

[BigFuzzy]

Originally Posted by Jim Poor

Well, of course putting anything in front of the light is going to reduce the quantity of it that reaches the subject, however the gain in quality usually outweighs the loss.

+100 yeah, not sure much more can be said really.

It's always a question of quality vs quantity and, at least the stuff that I shoot, I never need so much power (ie quantity) that I can't sacrifice any for better quality.

[scootermcq]

Originally Posted by Jim Poor

Well, of course putting anything in front of the light is going to reduce the quantity of it that reaches the subject, however the gain in quality usually outweighs the loss.

+200 The other thing to think about is anything except direct flash (and we know it sucks) steals power. If you are bouncing, you need more power... diffusing, more power etc.