Review: Gary Fong's Lightsphere (by Neko)

[JakeB.]

Provided by Neko I just purchased the 'cloud' version of Gary Fong's inverted dome diffuser. I was contemplating on buying Canon 430EX as my current flash is Vivitar 550FD, that's basically sold for $40 but after taking number of pictures with the flash, I decided to get the diffuser, which is offered in various sizes, and see the results. Setup: Canon 20D Canon 50mm mkII f1.8 lens Vivitar 550FD external flash Gary Fong's Inverted Dome Cloud Diffuser Subject: Pineapple Dining room ceiling is about 8' high The Test: 1. 20D's built-in flash 2. Bounce the flash without the diffuser off ceiling 3. Bounce the flash with Fong diffuser without the dome on top 4. Bounce the flash with Fong diffuser with the dome The first shot with the 20D's built-in flash was done with automatic mode. It's obvious it was going to look pretty but here it is: Then I took my flash without the diffuser & bounced the light straight up. In Av mode -> It looks much better but any area not exposed from the light above seems darker. So I put the diffuser without the dome and get this result which is recommended by Gary Fong himself -> I tried it with the dome on but the result was ok but prefer it without the dome -> In either case I'm VERY satisfied with the diffuser and looking forward to shooting more photos (my first wedding shoot this weekend!). Although it's $50 I think it's worth every penny. The results are like night & day. I've been bouncing the flash but the diffuser gives the extra light below what's being bounced allowing more diffused light on the subject. Bounced light often darkens the eyes as there's not enough light to fill the subject facing the camera. The diffuser itself is built very well. It's rather thick and flexible. The top dome snaps on which can be fitted with the amber and the new chrome dome. I chose the cloud version since reading online reviews, the light was more softer compared to the clear. Here are some pictures of the diffuser. Price Paid: $50 on eBay through http://www.huntsphotoandvideo.com (highly recommended for anyone in the East Coast, received the item in two days) Pro's: Lighting looks more professional & well balanced. Built really well and gives you that edge in many pictures. Con's: For a diffuser, it's a bit pricey (but worth it), bulky obviously Would I recommend this product? Yes. It's a must. Forget the Stofen or any cheap diffuser. If you're going to get a diffuser, get Gary Fong. You won't be disappointed with the results

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[fventura03]

wow, looks great. do you know if that flash will work with the rebel xti?

external flash is definitely something i want now.