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Showing 1 of 11 conversations about:
K.T.N
1264
Feb 2, 2017
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This looks like a really great idea. But I wonder if you really get the promised results with it. You do lose a lot of light shooting through domes like that, and a single light source is somewhat limited.
This warrants some more research. But does anyone know off the top of their heads whether this system is legit?
Feb 2, 2017
BF_Hammer
717
Feb 2, 2017
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K.T.NOh the Lightsphere is a legit product. Gary Fong developed it years ago and there are many professional reviews of it to be found with a quick google search. Generally, it is considered to be among the best speedlight diffusers available. This particular kit is more for adding tint to the light, and not quite what I am interested in. The gold-colored dome is supposed to be for portraits and fashion as it produces a warmer light that does not wash out flesh tones. I would be in for a more simple kit with a regular white dome.
But yes you do sort of have the right idea that it reduces the amount of total light. What that means is the maximum range to a subject will be shorter, but that is true for any kind of light-diffusing system for speedlights.
Feb 2, 2017
deelube
7
Feb 2, 2017
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K.T.NI've used the Gary Fong diffuser for years now and the results have been terrific. It delivers natural looking results without having a harsh flash look. People look great! I use it to shoot meeting attendees in workshop situations. I only use the translucent diffuser which collapses to fit in my camera bag. As far as warranty, There really isn't anything to break on that unit. It's flexible plastic.
Feb 2, 2017
ZeeDan
180
Feb 2, 2017
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BF_HammerThe kit does include a white sphere. It has three spheres (not sure I really understand the gray, it is kind of just a neutral density filter). Guess you'd like a less expensive kit that doesn't have the snoot and colored filters?
Yeah, Gary Fong is way more than legit. This will show you how long this dome has been around, the one I own doesn't collapse, so it is a great big Tupperware bowl. The collapsible version would be outstanding.
Feb 2, 2017
Drewmon
21
Feb 2, 2017
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K.T.NFong gear is well proven/tested and typically does not disappoint at all. And he's a pretty cool guy in general... I need to replace my old kit, may well buy this one (need to check online pricing first...).
Feb 2, 2017
BF_Hammer
717
Feb 3, 2017
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ZeeDanYes, that is what I was trying to say. I would really be interested in a kit that included just the collapsible sphere, a white dome, and an amber dome. I have Nikon's color gel filters and never use them as it is. Not sure the snoot would ever be used by me. I have the Sto-Fen type diffusers and still still bounce my flash photography more than I use the diffuser.
Feb 3, 2017
dasman
387
Feb 4, 2017
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K.T.NThis system is definitely legit. I've used it for the last year or so, best flash modifier I have EVER used.
Feb 4, 2017
hyperlinked
304
Feb 4, 2017
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K.T.NAs everyone else has said, it's not a gimmick, but I only use mine when I'm photographing people. Indoors, I mostly use it without the dome so I can get some bounce flash. The biggest drawback is the size. The thing is bulky and clumsy feeling when mounted. You feel like you're carrying another small camera stacked on top of yours and there are a lot of times that I opt for just a standard diffuser, especially if I'm going to be switching between indoors and outdoors quickly. If you're on a one camera setup and you're shooting a live event, mounting and unmounting a light sphere is not practical.
Because of the size, it really really sticks out if you catch anything reflective in your photo. You'll notice a glaring white orb in windows. That's the other big drawback.
It's a great diffuser and probably a must have if you shoot a lot of people photos, but it's not really that useful for certain applications... but you can say that about anything.
Feb 4, 2017
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