boomboom Loc: Stow, Ohio

Hi everyone. I was out last night doing a frog survey for our local Metro Park. I know; what do you ask a frog when you do a survey? Anyway I saw some spider eyes reflecting off my headlamp and just happened to have my macro lens with me. I took this with a Canon 40d ,F/13, ISO 200 and shutter speed 1/200. I have the Canon dual MT24EX twin macro flash equipped with the diffuser caps on them. I would like feedback on the pictures and if anyone has figured out how to eliminate or cutdown on the flash reflection in the eyes. I know that is everybody's goal, but I am looking for suggestions. Thanks in advance for your remarks and advise.

Far shot to show subject


Macro 1:1 and cropped


Macro 1:1 and cropped

Nikonian72 Loc: Chico CA

This is a female Wolf spider, quite common to Ohio: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wolf_spider

From the pinpoint reflections in your spider's eyes, you are using multiple, un-diffused speedlights. Many (if not most) entomological macro-photographers use fairly broad diffusers, specifically to prevent pinpoint reflections. Several macro set-ups can be viewed on this page: http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-32754-4.html

boomboom Loc: Stow, Ohio

Hi Nikonian72. The twin lite flash has two diffusers on the lights. Obviously they don't diffuse too well. I may try putting something like a piece of paper towel in the caps to see if that works. Looks to me like maybe you almost need to have the flash off camera to cut down on the reflection. I'll have to experiment a little more. Thanks for the input.

napabob Loc: Napa CA

here's what I use on mine, it helps, but you'll never get away with no reflection that I know of, but you can reduce the hot spots
http://nocroppingzone.blogspot.com/2009/11/mt-24ex-diffuser-how-to.html

Nikonian72 Loc: Chico CA

Small diffusers are nearly like no diffusers at all. Best diffusers provide wide, even lighting, not possible with macro twin flash or macro key-&-fill flash set-ups.

boomboom Loc: Stow, Ohio

Thanks very much napabob. Your blog is truly interesting and I love it when people have the same camera and lens and flash. Then I can see what is possible with the equipment. I was happy with my shot other than the flash in the spider's eyes. If I come up with a solution I'll share it with everyone. Thanks for your response to my question.