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09/07/2005 02:27:39 PM · #1 |
I saw this flash attachment this past weekend for the first time and was wondering if anyone had used one. If so, what are the benefits - pros/cons? I assume that what I have pictured below is, in fact, a flash dome.
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09/07/2005 02:32:37 PM · #2 |
This I received in response to a similar post on another message board:
It is a Lightsphere from Gary Fong. I have 2, one for my 580 and one for my 550. When I purchased them he only had models specific to the flash. He now has an adapter that makes the lightsphere adaptable to different flashes except for the EX580. That flash requires a special design. The best thing would be to call or email if you are purchasing one lightsphere and fitting it to muttiple units, to see if the adapter will work. The adapter is an extra $12. Gary is usually very quick to get back to you. Here is the link to his site: //secure.mycart.net/catalogs/catalog.asp?prodid=3354218&showprevnext=1
The unit can be used a number of different ways: pointed towards the ceiling without the dome, pointed towards the ceiling with the dome or pointed directly at the person/subject with the dome. I haven’t had good luck with it pointed at the subject without the dome. What the unit does is diffuse the light and simulates shooting light through a translucent white umbrella but in my opinion it works better. At least for photographing people. It uses the walls of the room to help light the subject, but diffuses the light that is being sent directly towards the subject. If you are in a room with low ceiling you can add the dome and it diffuses the light even more. It’s not a cure all but it really makes photographs taken with flash appear like they weren’t or that you took a whole lot of time to brake out the studio strobes and set up the shot.
Having said all of that, the way that I use it the most is to point it directly at my subject with the dome on it and cut the power of the flash down 1/3 or ½ - sometimes more, but I’m not usually shooting groups. I’m also usually using it outdoors. If I use it indoors I usually use it as recommended by Gary. I know a couple of other people that use the Lightsphere, especially for weddings and they like it. You have to get use to it but I really like it.
Gary has come out with another Lightsphere that he is calling the Photojournalist. It isn’t hard plastic, isn’t as big but is suppose to do a really good job. I will probably get one once they become more readily available. I’ll let you know what I think.
The response is from Bill, 'photoconnections' in NY.
Message edited by author 2005-09-07 14:36:57. |
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09/07/2005 02:34:27 PM · #3 |
That would be Gary Fongs LightSphere II
I use it and love it. No harsh shadows. Warming. |
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09/07/2005 02:46:12 PM · #4 |
yup - I like it on my 380. Pain to carry around though.
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09/07/2005 03:01:06 PM · #5 |
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09/07/2005 03:37:44 PM · #6 |
Thanks for all the responses - and clarification on what that item actually is. The domes I saw were similar - this confirms it isn't quite the same thing.
The woman I saw with it was using it outside at our local Ren Faire. It is a bit large to carry around there - but it sounds like a neat accessory.
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09/07/2005 04:02:48 PM · #7 |
| I also use the lightsphere - for about a month now - and I LOVE it. As said, it's a pain to carry around, but it's unbelievable for outdoor photographs. They're so much easier now! |
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09/07/2005 04:21:39 PM · #8 |
Originally posted by Bebe:
I also use the lightsphere - for about a month now - and I LOVE it. As said, it's a pain to carry around, but it's unbelievable for outdoor photographs. They're so much easier now! |
Beryl, after seeing yours on Saturday I think I'm going to get one. Did you get yours through Gary Fongs website? Is this the only place they are available?
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09/07/2005 06:44:34 PM · #9 |
| Hey Jennifer! Yes, I bought it off the website. I haven't ever seen it anywhere else ... |
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10/11/2007 04:52:01 AM · #10 |
Originally posted by Bebe:
I also use the lightsphere - for about a month now - and I LOVE it. As said, it's a pain to carry around, but it's unbelievable for outdoor photographs. They're so much easier now! |
Hi,
Carry Lightsphere is no more pain...
I have DIY a carrier, you can check it out from my blog: //www.pixelraves.com |
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10/11/2007 11:53:37 AM · #11 |
| I just bought one and I am not all that impressed with it. But then again, I suck at photography. |
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