Learning About On-Flash Modifiers & Flash Diffusers

On-flash modifiers include flash diffusers that are usually made of plastic and snap right onto pre-existing camera flash units. Much like ring lights, standalone lighting, umbrellas, and soft boxes, they help create the atmosphere photographers desire for a shoot. Using natural light and light modifiers together with camera flash units, provides better control indoors or out.

What Does a Flash Diffuser Do?

Camera flash diffusers move and shape light from the camera flash to get the best tone during photo sessions. Using a flash modifier, you can modify light to replicate daylight or moonlight, and soften or add a shadow to a photo. The plastic diffusers are sturdy and resist scratching and breakage, but proper storage is crucial to keeping them working properly. Protect light modifiers and diffusers with flash pouches, to keep them from being damaged during transfer or use.

What Are Flash Diffusers Used For?

What a flash diffuser does will depend upon the type chosen, but they all manipulate light in some way. There are four commonly used types of flash diffuser, and each one allows you to control light and move it where it’s most needed.

• Plastic: These are semi-transparent. Each model fits a specific flash unit. They snap-on, and are easy to use and store. They remove shadows and provide the most flattering light levels
• Light-shaper: These bounce the flash, controlling the way light reflects off ceilings and floors. They turn any surface into a diffused light source
• Lambency-cloud: They scatter light through the entire area, they bounce light from the ceiling, and they provide the best shadow
• Colored: Best for dramatic results. They add color naturally to create varying natural light effects

Mounting and connecting non snap-on modifiers is made simple by using a variety of PC sync adapters specified to a camera’s specific make and model. Some sync adapters create lower flash voltage on cameras, offer multiple male and female PC outlets, and support TTL flash metering. Before searching for a flash diffuser, write down your camera's model number, serial number, and brand. Knowing this information about your equipment saves time in selecting the right diffuser. Canon and Nikon flash diffusers are specifically designed to work on their cameras, but there are several compatible options available. There are also options for macro and ring light accessories, to provide more options for light manipulation. Ring lights use LED light to reduce shadow in portraiture. They run using an AC adapter or batteries, depending on the model. Ring lights provide even lighting for headshots, wedding photography, and family portraits, and make the subject the primary focus of the photo.

B&H Photo and Video has flash diffusers, ring lights, TTL cords, and accessories to create the ideal lighting for photography and recording. Consider a camera case, flash pouch, lens bag, or other protective equipment to save your investment.