Wednesday, 3 December 2008
Camera Accessories - 430ex, photography
This seemingly simple piece of molded plastic was recommended to me by a professional photographer. Basically it's the shape of an open box that slides firmly onto the flash. It is small and sturdy enough to stash in your camera bag without worrying about damage. When used the light disperses more evenly and is less harsh on the subject being photographed.
The white box is for general use. Also available are the green Omni-bounce for florescent lighting and the gold Omni-bounce for a warming effect.
PROS:
Inexpensive solution for better flash photography.
A quality product that works.
CONS:
Reduces the amount of light cast upon subject (should be expected with these types of products). Stofen OM-EW Omni Bounce For Canon 430EX White
If you have a flash, this or a light sphere is almost a needed item to improve your creative range with your shots. Though, I highly recommend this product over the light sphere, as they both have about the same visual effect, but the light sphere costs dramatically more.
This device fits easily onto your flash and holds tight. No need for ugly tape or sticky velcro pads that look tacky. This thing merges into the form of your flash and looks like it belonged there the whole time. Looks aside, what does it do?
It diffuses your flash's light so you get a softer and more spread-out look to your flash. No more pictures looking like you're shining a spotlight on people. This has a more "natural soft light" look to it. I highly recommend it for indoor use, because you'll want a soft flash with it being the only light source, and the omni-bounce spreads out the light so you are better able to light up the scene and room.
The only downside is that since it is softening the light, you may need to adjust your flash output. You may have to dial up your exposure (meaning slower flash recycle times and faster battery drainage). The tradeoff is irritating sometimes, but well worth it for the improved looks in your photos.
I have used the Sto-Fen OMEW with my Canon 430EX flash and it fits perfectly. The diffuser is easy to slip on and will stay on tight unless it's pulled off.
This diffuser light to escape in a number of directions (hence omni-bounce)instead of the typical single direction of the flash. The benefit of this is that light is less harsh and because of the bouncing light, there will be less strong shadows and generally more even lighting.
You'll notice the biggest difference in shooting portraits as softer, more even lighting is generally more flattering.
I bought this diffuser when I bought my Canon Speedlite 430EX. It works great! The diffuser fits perfectly on my 430EX. No more complaints from family members about the flash. When the flash goes off, none of the dogs blinks their eyes.
Great diffuser. Easy to put on and take off of Canon 430EX speedlite flash. Does a nice job of removing the glare from too much flash. Slightly "deadens" the light range, but this can easily be adjusted for in post. Highly recommended! And you can't beat the price either!
I have no complaints about the functionality of this diffuser. It does a very nice job of softening and controling light from my Canon flash. Unlike one of the reviewers above, I found that it fits the flash perfectly: it's easy to slip on, but maintains enough friction that it will not easily fall off without purposeful pulling. My only complaint is that this plain piece of flimsy plastic, without any complications that would make manufacture difficult, costs $9, and then requires another $7 of shipping. It's just overpriced. I suppose I shouldn't complain since it increases the functionality of a $400 flash, but it is, afterall, just a flimsy piece of plastic. - 430ex - Photography - Canon - Flash'
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