DIY DSLR Flash Reflector
A single DLSR flash unit used as a main light source results in a harshly lit image with deep, unnatural shadows. Simple DIY reflectors or diffusers made from inexpensive materials soften the light from flash units to improve the quality of the final image and reduce the amount of post-processing necessary. You can use a variety of materials and techniques for adding a DIY diffuser or reflector to your camera.
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Things You'll Need
- Electrical tape
- Duct tape
- Velcro
- Translucent plastic
- Stiff opaque plastic
- Cardboard
- Paper
Instructions
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Bounce flash off a white ceiling. Point the flash unit up at a point on the ceiling halfway between the camera and the subject to reflect diffused light on the subject by using the ceiling as an effective flash reflector.
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Tape a diffuser over the front of your flash unit. Any translucent piece of plastic will work. Choose a small piece of translucent white plastic, cut to the shape of the front of the flash, and attach with duct or electrical tape. Plain white paper will work as well.
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Make a diffuser hood for a flash using a sheet of stiff opaque white cardboard or plastic measuring at least 6 inches by 10 inches. Attach the hood material to the sides of the flash unit using sticky-backed velcro if possible, or otherwise using duct or electrical tape. With the flash unit pointing vertically, fold the top hood material down at a 45 degree angle to the light projected from the flash. Trim away excess material and seal any gaps with duct tape.
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Tips & Warnings
Durable flash diffuser hoods are available online or from camera stores for under $10, and may, over the long run, be cheaper than DIY versions.
Monitor the temperature of your flash unit carefully. Make sure the tape attaching the diffuser or reflector to your flash does not overheat.
References
- Photo Credit Creatas Images/Creatas/Getty Images
