DIY Flash Diffuser

This is a simple flash diffuser that is quick and easy to make :)
Instructions here will fit on a Nikon SB800 or SB600.
Alter dimensions accordingly to fit other flashes.

***Update 8th Jan 2008***
Just came across a commercial product that is similar:
http://www.uneed-hk.com/product/podketidea/magiclight/magiclight.html

Step 1 Materials

List of materials:
1. Rationell Drawer Mat (from Ikea) - the diffuser
2. Cutting Mat - for cutting the drawer mat
3. Metal Ruler - for cutting the drawer mat
4. Pen Knife - for cutting the drawer mat
5. Marker - for marking out
6. Rubber Band - for securing the diffuser on the flash
7. Flash for fitting

Comments

[johnxy888]

Would bubble wrap work? IKEA is rather far from where I live =/

[bigwhitebear18]

You can buy this product at Lowes too in the shelves and storage area.

[simtse]

I believe you can modify this a little more on the top by making it a little wider, add some velcro and make an inverted or rightside up dome. Would require more work, but I think it is possible. That way, you have something that resembles a GF Lightsphere.

[zonewarrior]

So let's get this straight- the ikea diffuser is open ended and you effectively pointing the head at the roof - hence the center of the flash beam is still being 'bounced', with some side fill coming from the beam edges striking the diffuser right ? I still prefer the 'stofen' style diffuser...as simple solution

[Phauxtoe]

Please remember that this will Reduce the effective power and useful distance of the Flash.

[ark19]

I guess all diffusers would reduce the flash power. Thanks :)

[KIlroii]

I've used a tissue just propped on top of the flash or waved my fingers in a pinch!! kilroi

[ark19]

Hi Kllroii, yup tissue does work :)

[j_man51]

I too have used bubble wrap as a quick and easy diffuser and have been amazed with the results. In fact, i recently made diffusion boxes for halogen work lamps while working with a green screen. The effects were amazingly good!

[ark19]

Hi j_man51, this was made using a plastic mat with dots on it. Can bubble wraps withstand the heat? Cheers :)

[j_man51]

what I did was actually did was use a cardboard box as a sort of frame, and mounted the bubble wrap to that. I found that about 15cm away from the lamp itself was the perfect location, as it provided the correct amount of light and did not melt the bubble wrap. With the frame design, I was also able to interchange the material depending on how much light was required for the particular shot (such as a heavier cloth or mildly translucent paper). Perhaps i'll do a an intstructable on it!

[ark19]

Cool :) Would be great if you can write an instructable on it :)

[john917v]

Great instructable! I will have to make one.

[ark19]

Thanks john917v :)

[GorillazMiko]

Nice job, nice pictures, easy steps to follow, great pictures. What kind of camera do you have, I must know. Or it's probably your skills.

[ark19]

Hi GorillazMiko, thanks for the comments :) I used a Nikon D200 + 50mm f/1.8 + SB800 (with the diffuser)

[bhunter736]

Very nice scientific approach with all of the photos at the end. I love the comparisons. You have sold me on bubble wrap! I have to wonder if a sheet of plain white paper would attain similar results if applied the same way? I will have to try it. Thanks for the great idea!

[ark19]

Hi bhunter736, its actually a plastic sheet with "dots" on it. Used for laying drawers :) Bubble wrap might not be able to withstand the heat from the flash. Tracing paper might work better than plain white paper :) Thanks for the comments. Cheers!