Flashbender or Diffuser

[Mocha]

Ok, looking for suggestions. I just bought a Canon Speedlite 430EX II. In a bad lighting situation with nowhere to bounce the flash -- low lights, high ceiling, large room -- would you suggest a Rogue Flashbender ExpoImaging - Rogue Photographic Design or a diffuser? I understand that the results are different for both of these, but I am looking for reasons why you prefer one over the other. Or maybe you have other suggestions. Or should I just go with the flash (not pointed at subject) with no attachment? BTW, I am trying to keep it relatively simple and low cost with nice results. Not really wanting to have an assistant with a variety of 4' reflectors at family and social functions. Thank you very much in advance for your help.

[zona5101]

My first preference is using walls or ceilings but if neither are available/appropriate I like a bounce card like the flash bender. Lumaquest makes one similar to light bender. I actually use a DIY one I made works exactly the same.
DIY Reflector-Diffuser

[brianxlt]

I have made several of my own light reflectors similar to the one above (not as cheap looking) out of the foam sheets and attach them to the flash with hair ties (perfect fit). Some are small, some are big and even directional ones as well as round ones and ones with square edges. Different shapes for different usage. That foam works great and is inexpensive. If you use the black sheet with self-adhesive on it then stick it to a white sheet cut to your pattern and there you go. If it gets dirty or torn just throw it away and make another.

[gptwins]

You can also try a StoFen diffuser dome. They, or a like brand, are pretty inexpensive and can help immensely.

Also attaching a white index card with a rubber band can act as a reflective surface.

[sk66]

The flash benders are great, but so are softboxes (I have an Alzo mini and even smaller ones). They serve different purposes... A softbox needs to be up close and personal...it's for "portrait type" shots. IMO they also need to be off camera.
Bouncing/cards is for more general illumination.

[mosgood]

Originally Posted by gptwins

You can also try a StoFen diffuser dome. They, or a like brand, are pretty inexpensive and can help immensely.

Also attaching a white index card with a rubber band can act as a reflective surface.

The Stofen works great as long as it doesn't pop off the flash unit. I had one, & got to where I hated it. I'd take a shot or two, & would then have to back track to find the stupid thing somewhere on the floor. It never stayed in place for very long. I like diffusers with Velcro. You put it on, you remove it when you're finished shooting. You never ever have to worry about losing the diffuser.

[Mocha]

Thank you everybody for your input. I think the best thing to do is go to a photo shop and see if they will let me try out a couple of different items. I like the flashbender for portability. I also like the idea of using it off-camera for bounce when I am shooting macro. I am also liking what I see from Gary Fong, nice soft light being bounced from everywhere -- great shadow elimination. Again, thanks. Lots of good ideas. Maybe I will do a DIY for the flashbender and buy the Gary Fong diffuser.