| A photographic flash is a small, intense source
of light that produces very harsh shadows. In addition, it is
often coming from an unnatural source... the camera. The process
of softening the shadows is actually both simple and consistent
with the basic laws of physics. Unquestionably the most significant
factor in determining shadow quality is the size of the light
source, and LumiQuest® uses this basic principal to develop
effective lighting accessories. |
 |
|
| If the photographer can enlarge the light source and have
it coming from a more natural direction, it will be a significant improvement
over direct flash. All of our bounce and diffusion devices enlarge the
light source and, at least to some degree, move it farther from the camera.
Our 80-20 incorporates ceiling bounce into the process by bouncing 80%
of the light off the ceiling which becomes a new, larger light source
coming from a more natural direction. The 20% fill is then directed back
into the subject to help fill shadows cast by the ceiling bounce. Obviously
it would be pointless to use the 80-20 without a ceiling since 80% of
the light would be lost rather than bounced back into the frame. |
 |
| Accessories such as our UltraBounce are not shadow
softening devices themselves since they are not materially larger
than the flash itself. These accessories are actually light distribution
devices. By spreading the light over 180° it can be bounced
back into the frame by nearby walls and ceilings. In relatively
small rooms they are very effective at providing soft, even illumination.
However, if used in large rooms or outdoors they have virtually
no impact on shadow softness. Obviously it is pointless to illuminate
100° more than you are photographing if there are no surfaces
to bounce the light back into the frame. |
 |
 |
 |
| The key is to use the right accessory
for the situation and objective. Keep in mind that this is not
magic, the road to softer more natural light is a larger light
source coming from a more natural direction. Click on the Product Guide to select the right accessory
for your needs. |
|
