How to Cut Light Diffusers
Light diffusers offer a critical solution to the common lighting problems most photographers encounter. Flash diffusers work to reduce the effects of harsh over-lighting, but professional light diffusers can get expensive. Cutting your own from a few common household items will work well enough to hold you over until you save up for a professional one. These light diffusers should only take a few minutes to make and tweak for your use.
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Things You'll Need
- Black marking pen
- White craft foam
- Scissors
- Hook-and-loop fastener or large rubber bands
- 2-gallon plastic milk jug
Instructions
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Craft Foam Diffuser
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1
Lay the white craft foam paper flat on a desk or table. Design the light diffuser to be about 8 inches long and about 8 to 10 inches wide.
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2
Mark the outline of your light diffuser on the foam paper. Use rounded edges on the subject side of the diffuser and two notched slots in the rear, so it can fit securely around the flash. The end result should look something like an "M" with a straight top; the middle fork of the "M" (for the flash's bottom) should be the widest.
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3
Cut out the light diffuser following your pattern. Cut off about six inches of hook-and-loop fastener.
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4
Place the cutout light diffuser over the flash. With the scissors, readjust the rear slots so the diffuser fits tightly over the flash.
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5
Secure the diffuser in place with the hook-and-loop fastener or large rubber band. Turn on the flash and look for signs the light is leaking out.
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6
Re-cut and readjust the diffuser until all of the light is covered.
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1
Tips & Warnings
You may need to cut out a few test diffusers until you find a pattern that best fits your flash.
References
- Photo Credit dSLR camera flash mounted as a slave image by dinostock from Fotolia.com
