Flash question/help: I have been using an sb600 flash with my d90. For interior shots I bounce off walls/ceiling, also use outdoors for fill. I am looking at diffusers and bounce cards...

Npt Bob Loc: Newport, RI

I have been using an sb600 flash with my d90. For interior shots I bounce off walls/ceiling, also use outdoors for fill. I am looking at diffusers and bounce cards for use where ceilings are too high and for better outdoors fill. Which should I buy/use and why?
Thanks

CaptainC Loc: Colorado, south of Denver

Npt Bob wrote:

I have been using an sb600 flash with my d90. For interior shots I bounce off walls/ceiling, also use outdoors for fill. I am looking at diffusers and bounce cards for use where ceilings are too high and for better outdoors fill. Which should I buy/use and why?
Thanks

If it is truly JUST fill, you may not need much. You could waste money on lots of things, but one of the best is a 3x5 white index card and a rubber band. Tilt the flash up at 45deg. or more, affix that card so it is behind the flash and you will get a great fill and something that puts a nice catchlight in the eyes. Newspaper guys have used that device for years.

Be very careful of people who will tell you that their device will soften an on-camera flash outdoors. The only way to soften that flash is to make the source bigger and it is tough to do if the flash stays on the camera.

I see people outdoors with that silly diffuser dome on the flash and it does absolutely nothing outdoors except kill two stops. I asked one lady why she had the diffuser on and her answer was, "so I don't lose it."

Npt Bob Loc: Newport, RI

Thanks Cliff.
I don't like the results from direct flash and try to shoot w/o flash as much as possible. In my mind the diffusers just didn't seem to be logical dispute all the hype, but I couldn't define why.
The 3x5 bounce card will be added to my gear! WOW! A photo solution that doesn't try to empty my wallet.
Thanks again,
Bob

skidooman Loc: Minnesota

Yeah, the Capt. is right. An index card or a plain piece of white paper and a rubber band will work wonders.There are so many thingymabobs, doohickeys and gizmos out there that all preach they are better than sliced bread when it comes to diffusing/bouncing light. The best one I've ever used I made myself for less than $5.00 and 10 minutes of my time.

If I only knew then what I know now,,I could've saved a few bucks :)

photog17

Thanks for your suggestion. About how much of the index card should hang over the edge of the flash for best bounce effectiveness? I have an SB-800 with a small white card that can be pulled out to aid with bounce flash, but I've never felt it made much difference.

CaptainC Loc: Colorado, south of Denver

photog17 wrote:

Thanks for your suggestion. About how much of the index card should hang over the edge of the flash for best bounce effectiveness? I have an SB-800 with a small white card that can be pulled out to aid with bounce flash, but I've never felt it made much difference.

4.346 inches.

Just some. More than the SB800's little white card - although even that much does work.

ronz Loc: Florida

With over 25 years shooting I have tried many of the so called light softeners and deflectors, very few if any will give you what you are looking for. Try getting the flash off the camera even if you have to use a $5 tether attached to your camera for now. You will find how easy it really is with just a little practice. If you must leave it on, the 4x6 or 3 1/2 x 5 card will do everything the pricey items will do plus the eyes will look alive. Try it, it is free.....

Jer Loc: Mesa, Arizona

I've had great results with a 4.34723094329 card.

CaptainC wrote:

photog17 wrote:

Thanks for your suggestion. About how much of the index card should hang over the edge of the flash for best bounce effectiveness? I have an SB-800 with a small white card that can be pulled out to aid with bounce flash, but I've never felt it made much difference.

4.346 inches.

Just some. More than the SB800's little white card - although even that much does work.

CaptainC Loc: Colorado, south of Denver

Jer wrote:

I've had great results with a 4.34723094329 card.

CaptainC wrote:

photog17 wrote:

Thanks for your suggestion. About how much of the index card should hang over the edge of the flash for best bounce effectiveness? I have an SB-800 with a small white card that can be pulled out to aid with bounce flash, but I've never felt it made much difference.

4.346 inches.

Just some. More than the SB800's little white card - although even that much does work.

Thanks Jer - THAT'S been my problem!

Mpeter45 Loc: Springfield, Illinois

The only problem with index cards is they only work a few times before needing to be replaced. Instead, cut up an old Chlorox jug. It is white, it has a curve to it, it is free and it is practically indestructible. I have even cut holes in it to make an 80/20 reflector.

Mpeter45 Loc: Springfield, Illinois

The only problem with index cards is they only work a few times before needing to be replaced. Instead, cut up an old Chlorox jug. It is white, it has a curve to it, it is free and it is practically indestructible. I have even cut holes in it to make an 80/20 reflector.

tradio Loc: Oxford, Ohio

Take a look at the "Black Foamy Thing" on Neil Niekirk's site. Some good info there. I made one for about $2.50 and am very impressed.

AndyT Loc: Hampstead, New Hampshire

Ive used outdoor fill flash for years by just reducing its power by a stop and leaving the flash aimed at the object Im shooting. I understand the comment about losing two stops with the attached
diffuser, but what if you left the diffuser on (outdoors), as well as leaving the flash on full power, and pointed the flash directly at the subject? If its TTL won't it compensate for the loss of light?

CaptainC Loc: Colorado, south of Denver

AndyT wrote:

Ive used outdoor fill flash for years by just reducing its power by a stop and leaving the flash aimed at the object Im shooting. I understand the comment about losing two stops with the attached
diffuser, but what if you left the diffuser on (outdoors), as well as leaving the flash on full power, and pointed the flash directly at the subject? If its TTL won't it compensate for the loss of light?

Yeah, of course. And increase your cycle time, shorten battery life, put more stress on the flash tube - so go ahead. It only has to put out 4 TIMES as much light.

AndyT Loc: Hampstead, New Hampshire

No need to get snippy with your answer.