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Best Flash Diffuser

The use of a flash diffuser can introduce a more natural feel to a photograph.

A modifier that is attached to the exterior of the flash unit; a flash diffuser comes into effect in instances where you are faced with harsh lighting and shadowing.

The diffuser will diffuse the light for a more flattering and natural effect on the photograph. This distribution of light will soften any shadows.

For those who are looking to improve the quality of their photographs, a flash diffuser is a way forward.

 

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Selecting the right photography equipment can be challenging, especially if you are unfamiliar with this type of equipment.

There are many different variations of flash diffuser products available, and you may find one to complement your photography expertise more than another.

We have compiled a guide with our top five picks of the best flash diffusers available. For additional guidance, we have provided a useful buyer's guide where we have identified our top tips for selecting the best product.

If you are in a hurry, we have selected our top pick for you below.

Best Flash Diffuser – Comparison Table

Best Flash Diffuser – Reviews

Our Pick
Flash Diffuser Light Softbox 9x7” by Altura Photo (Universal, Collapsible with Storage Pouch) for Canon, Yongnuo and Nikon Speedlight
Our rating:

As an amazon bestseller, there is no denying that the Altura Flash Light Diffuser Softbox is a strong contender and effective in fulfilling its purpose.

It works to provide an even light source by reducing harshness and the presence of shadows in your photographs.

Compatible with shoe mount flat units, this flash diffuser is available in multiple size options to cater to the individual needs of each photographer and their equipment.

Set up is easy courtesy of the efficient hook and loop design. Simply secure the strap to the flash head and alter it according to the fit required.

When you aren't using the softbox, it can be folded flat so it isn't going to consume a lot of room amongst your other equipment. It also comes with a protective pouch that allows for easy and safe storage.

The product itself measures 9″ x 7″ and is suitable for the majority of flash units including those from well-known brands such as Canon, Nikon, and Sony, etc.

The durability is emphasized through the design of this softbox. All of the seams have been stitched and the rubber anti-slip grips help to hold the softbox in place so you can capture shots with great accuracy.

Pros
  • This softbox is backed with a 100% satisfaction guarantee should you be unhappy with your purchase.
  • It is available in multiple size options.
  • Affordably priced it is ideal for photographers on a budget.
  • It's easy to mount and comes with an adjustable strap.
  • When not in use it can be folded down flat.
Cons
  • Some may not feel as though this diffuser makes a hugely noticeable difference to their shots.

Neewer Universal Soft Mini Flash Bounce Diffuser Cap Compatible with Canon, Nikon, Godox, Yongnuo, Neewer TT560 NW550 NW561 NW570 NW580 NW625 NW635 NW-670 750II NW645 NW655 Speedlite Flashes
Our rating:

As a universal studio softbox diffuser, this piece of equipment measures 3″ x 2.8″ x 1.2″ and is suitable for use with most flash units. The softbox mounts to the flash unit and converts the effect of harsh light to make it softer while helping to reduce the effect of shadowing.

The convenience of this flash diffuser is particularly favorable as it can be collapsed and folded in between uses before being stored away with ease.

This is ideal for photographers or camera enthusiasts whose photography often takes them to different locations as this diffuser isn't going to consume a lot of room.

Attaching this flash diffuser to your equipment is super straightforward. Thanks to the elasticated bottom, it can easily be attached to the flash unit and easily removed when needed.

When it comes to compatibility, this diffuser certainly doesn't disappoint and can be used with flash units from a range of brands including Canon, Nikon, Sigma, Sony, Olympus, Panasonic, and many more.

Pros
  • This diffuser is easy to attach to your flash unit.
  • It's affordably priced and ideal for those on a budget.
  • Compactly designed it is ideal for photographers who are often on the go.
  • It softens the light in a range of situations to capture the best quality photographs.
  • As it is easy to use it is ideal for photography amateurs.
Cons
  • It may not be sufficiently fitting for built-in flash units.

Gary Fong Lightsphere Collapsible Gen5
Our rating:

The Gary Fong Lightsphere Gen5 adheres to a universal fit that makes it suitable for use with a range of flash units from different brands.

This product is collapsible and upon receipt, it comes out of the box in the shape of a transparent ring before being popped out to develop its shape.

It features a convenient strap that allows you to secure it to your flash unit with ease. Once in place, it is going to remain secure although the fit can be altered if needed.

Courtesy of the speed mount design, you can alternate between modifiers within minimal time when required.

The clear, translucent design provides a soft illumination that minimizes the effect of flashing. It is also equipped with a dome that can be attached to the diffuser and this will allow you to shoot with ease in areas with low ceilings etc.

The versatility of the flash diffuser is particularly impressive. When the orientation of your camera focus changes, the Lightsphere Gen5 doesn't need to be altered to coincide with this.

Instead, you can simply rotate the flash head and this will allow you to shoot from a vertical or horizontal angle.

Pros
  • The clear translucent design blocks the effect of a flash. Made in the USA, you can be confident in the source of your purchase.
  • You are provided with the collapsible speed mount as well as the white dome, the cinch strap, and the field guide.
  • It is universal fitting which makes it suitable for all types of equipment.
  • This diffuser helps to capture photographs with a softer light.
Cons
  • It is a little expensive which may make it unsuitable for those on a budget.

waka Flash Diffuser Light Softbox, [2 Pack] Speedlight Softbox Collapsible with Storage Pouch - 8' Octagon Softbox + 8'x6' for Canon, Yongnuo and Nikon Speedlight
Our rating:

Coming in a set of two, the brand Waka provides you with two different shaped softboxes, one that is octagon shaped and the other that is rectangular.

The octagon softbox measures 8″ while the rectangular softbox measures 8″ x 6″ and both can be mounted to a range of flash units including those from brands such as Canon, Nikon, Sony, Olympus, and many more.

Each of the softboxes help to reduce the harsh effect of shadowing and red-eye on your photographs. Designed with a stretchy opening both can be attached to the flash unit and the strap allows for a more customizable fit.

A particularly favorable feature is the anti-slip surface that intends to hold the diffuser in place securely.

The internal diffuser is made of pro-grade silver material and can be removed. This is particularly useful for capturing photographs where the effect of the flash is much softer.

The exterior of the softboxes has been made using black nylon and both come with a protective carry pouch that allows you to store them conveniently in between uses.

Pros
  • They come in a 2 pack and each differs in shape so you can choose according to your needs.
  • They are collapsible and can easily be stored in the carry pouches when they aren't in use.
  • As they retail at an affordable price, they are a great option for those who are on budgets.
  • They are compatible with a range of different branded flash units.
  • They are super portable thanks to their compact and convenient design.
Cons
  • The exterior quality of these diffusers could be improved for enhanced durability.

RGB Video Lights, Magnetic LED Camera Light 360° Full Color with 3 Cold Shoe Mounts, 2000mAh Rechargeable CRI95+ 2500-9000K Dimmable Panel Lamp Portable Photography Lighting
Our rating:

As diffuser reflectors, this product intends to bounce and reflect the source of light for the best effect on your photographs.

There are two different sides to choose from, one that is silver and the other that is white, and you can choose according to the results that you desire.

If you are looking for a soft indirect flash you will benefit from using the white side. However, if you are looking for a flash with a greater range and spectral highlights, you will need to use the silver side.

Each of the reflectors measure 8.2″ x 7.4″ and are compatible with a range of different flash units. This includes Nikon, Canon, Olympus, Sony, Sigma, and many more.

They are also designed with an elasticated strap that allows for easy attachment to your camera equipment ensuring that it remains securely in place.

If you're looking for reflectors that will allow you to achieve professionally styled photographs, these could be the perfect option as they have been designed to diffuse harsh light that can lead to shadowing.

As these reflectors are particularly small, they are the perfect addition to your camera equipment as you are going to be transporting bulky equipment in between locations.

Pros
  • The elasticated band allows for a secure fit to your camera equipment.
  • They are double-sided so you can choose according to the style of photographs that you are attempting to capture.
  • They don't consume a lot of room and are a convenient addition to your hand gear.
  • Affordably priced these reflectors are good value for money.
  • They are effective in bouncing and redirecting the source of light.
Cons
  • Unfortunately, these reflectors are prone to slipping off the camera.

Best Flash Diffuser – Buyers Guide

We would recommend you consider several factors before investing in your flash diffuser.

There are numerous types available and so you want to ensure that your chosen piece of equipment is going to be effective in catering to your needs.

Below, we have outlined our top tips for selecting the best product along with some important features of flash diffusers that are worth considering beforehand.

The Type 

A flash diffuser is a general term that can refer to many different styles of equipment.

Most commonly, a flash diffuser refers to a softbox but it can also refer to reflectors or a diffusion dome. A softbox refers to a box that is typically made from fabric or rigid materials and alters the direction of the light to make it softer.

A flash reflector fixes shadows by blocking and bouncing off the source of light. A diffusion dome looks like a cap and it sits on the end of the flash tube window.

When you take a photograph and the flash illuminates, the dome will diffuse this beam of light so it appears softer. You may develop a preference towards a particular type of flash diffuser if you find one to be more suited to your needs than another.

The Compatibility

It is not always the case that one size fits all.

While you will find some flash diffusers that are suitable for a range of different brands, others will be marketed towards specific types.

It is important to ensure that your chosen flash diffuser is suitable for your equipment.

Those that are bigger are not only going to be more inconvenient to transport but they are also likely to be more difficult to work with.

The Flexibility

It is important to ensure that your flash diffuser is compatible with different sized lenses.

For those who are avid photographers, you are likely to find yourself alternating between different lenses depending on the photographs that you are hoping to capture.

The Quality

The quality of your camera equipment is going to affect the outcome of your photographs.

If the flash diffuser is poorly designed, it is going to affect your photographs.

The higher the quality of your equipment the higher the quality of your final project.

The Size

Many manufacturers will produce flash diffusers in different sizes and this allows you to make your selection according to the equipment that you have in place.

Others will be more universally sized.

Fitting to your Equipment

Ideally, your flash diffuser should be easy to attach to your equipment. You don't want to be at the beginning of a photoshoot only to find that the diffuser is a little difficult to attach to your flash unit.

In most instances, the specifications will state the assembly that is required to attach the diffuser to your camera.

Many will come with adjustable straps that allow you to alter the fit to your existing equipment. Most will also have stretchy or adjustable openings that make them easy to slide on and remove from the flash unit.

Preferably, when in place, your diffuser should remain stable and secure.

Ease to Use

For amateur photographers, preferably their flash diffuser should be easy to use. This applies to the set up of the diffuser and using it too.

A flash diffuser that surrounds a straightforward concept is likely to be preferable to those who are unfamiliar with using this type of equipment.

For those who are more experienced within this field, this may not be as significant of a concern.

The Portability

For photographers who often find themselves on the go, the portability of their equipment is important. You don't want to invest in your flash diffuser only to find that it is significantly larger than anticipated.

The product specifications are likely to state the dimensions of the flash diffuser to provide you with a clearer idea as to how easy the diffuser is to transport. Those that are smaller and collapsible are likely to be much easier to transport.

Many brands also provide free storage pouches which make them easier to transport but also assures you that you have a safe place for storing your equipment in between uses.

The Contents

As you browse the market you are likely to find that some flash diffusers are offered in different quantities.

Many come in multiple packs while others come in different shape variations and this allows you to choose the best option according to the photograph in question.

Many reflector diffusers are double-sided with one side typically being silver and the other being white. Each can have a different effect on the photograph.

The Cost

As mentioned you can invest in different variations of flash diffusers and the cost can differ depending on the type that you choose.

Many Flash diffusers retail at affordable prices which are ideal for those who are on a budget.

However, if you wish to invest a little more in your diffuser there are options available to cater to this.

When making your selection, it is important to ensure that your flash diffuser doesn't compromise on quality as this can affect the outcome of your photographs.

The Warranty 

We would recommend you opting for a product that is covered by a warranty. This will ensure that you are covered should you experience any issues with the diffuser that you receive.

The length of the warranty tends to provide a clear indication in regards to the brand's confidence in the product. A longer warranty will show that they have greater confidence in the product lasting you a decent amount of time.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should you use a flash diffuser?

The use of a flash diffuser is going to depend on the photo that you are hoping to take.

If you are in an environment that is subject to harsh and unwanted light, you are likely to use a flash diffuser to eliminate this issue.

Can a flash diffuser be used outside?

A flash diffuser can hugely alter the final result of a shoot when used in an outdoor setting.

They produce a smooth light that is more flattering and natural.

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