Simple flash head diffuser

Diffuser attached with velcro, very simple to make.

Requires:
- flexible, translucent sheeting. Plastic from one of those lightweight binders will do fine
- hook velcro, preferably self-adhesive
- stapler (if the velcro isn't self-adhesive or just to give it extra strength)
- scissors or craft knife, ruler and cutting board

Assumes:
- the flash head has already been equipped with a Honl-type speedstrap. For this I substitute a double sided velcro strip which is kept from slipping by a piece of non-slip mat or by a coating of bathtub silicone.

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Step 1: Cut the material and attach the velcro

Find out what size would be reasonable. I used the width of the flash head plus 2cm (1") either side. For the length it just needs to be able to form a reasonable curve as show in the Intro.

Enough allowance should be made for attaching the velcro. I also stapled the velcro in case the adhesive gave way.

alaskanbychoice says: Dec 2, 2012. 9:51 AM

I think plastic milk jugs material would be ideal for this project.

nde prisco says: Mar 30, 2011. 8:38 AM

hi, where i can buy this plastic slides?

michaelchapala says: Apr 25, 2009. 12:51 PM

Cheap, easy and effective. It doesn't get any better than that.

philbertp2 says: Jan 25, 2009. 4:59 PM

Hi, I just made one in about 5 minutes! I put it on a Nikon SB-400 flash. It is small, but very powerful for all direct shots. I seldom tilt the flash up because of high ceilings, so this is an elegant solution. I do have a cable for off-camera shots as needed. That will be interesting to try with the diffuser, but so far the on-camera pix are very good. I got 3 sheets of material and velcro for a total of $6.23. I can easily store the thin sheet in my camera bag (it doesn't move with the velcro)! Easier than a hard piece of plastic or commercial product. So far, the color is significantly more intense. I will keep you posted. I have a big shoot this week and next weekend (wedding candids). THANKS!!!!