Flash Diffuser/Bounce Card SB-600

[103734]

I got a flash a few weeks ago but just really started using it, I feel like I did when I got my first SLR, using a flash really adds a whole new dimension to photography, and a lot of new stuff to learn.

So anyways for most of my shots I just bounce off the ceiling or a wall but sometimes the ceiling is just too tall or when I am taking pictures outside I can't bounce it so I have to shoot with the flash right on the subject, so I am looking into diffusers/bounce cards.

I tried using just a sheet of printer paper folded a few times and strapped to my flash with a rubber band. Should I just do this or is there a better solution?

 

[anubis]

Try googling "better bounce card" for instructions on making a nice, cheap bounce card... costs a couple of bucks to make

If you want an off-the-shelf solution, try googling Gary Fong Lightsphere and check out his web site. They're good, but pretty pricey (~$50) for a piece of molded plastic

 

[bobert83]

If you are just getting into flash, you might want to visit:

strobist.blogspot.com

They guy David has some fantastic advice you can take advantage of with the equipment you already have.

 

[Lovesong]

I would second the "better bounce card" idea. It's a pretty easy thing to make, and really beats most flash diffusers on the market. I'm frankly not a big fan of Gary Fong's stuff. It really is just tupperware with a $40 price tag. One thing that I use when I'm out and about and away from my umbrellas and softboxes is the Demb Jumbo Flip-It. Fairly cheap, and pretty good bounce card with the added durability over my DIY card.

 

[Chip NoVaMac]

May cost a few more bucks; but look at the Gary Fong Lightsphere

 

[apearlman]

Upgrade to card stock, not printer paper

I've been happy with a flat white card, cut in a fat T-shape and strapped to the flash with a rubber band. Using a card instead of thin paper makes it easy to bend forward or back, though most of the time I just let it point straight up. The Demb flip-it seems like a good tool, but it basically does the same thing as an index card: allow most of the flash to bounce, but send just a bit of light forward to avoid shadowed eye sockets and create catchlights.