Collapsable light diffusers and reflectors

[Photon Hacker]

Hello.

I'm about to order a product unrelated to photography from Adorama¹. To make the most of the shipping I would like to buy a circular collapsable reflector/light diffuser as well. My inquire is about nomenclature. Is a diffuser the same as a scrim, white reflector or translucent?.

[1]: Sony MDR-7506 headphones. They're unavailable in every local store I asked, just like I expected .

[Colin Southern]

Hi Mario,

Personally I don't use white reflectors very often (silver ones far more often though) - but I'd suggest a diffuser before either of those two (they're fantastic for killing dappled light and can even turn a harsh flash into a very soft light source.

Probably THE single most under-rated piece of photography equipment IMO.

[Poaceae]

Would strongly suggest getting a 5-in-1 collapsible reflector. You get a diffuser and 4 reflector panels - silver, gold. black, and white. A 40" reflector folds to under 9".

[Colin Southern]

Would strongly suggest getting a 5-in-1 collapsible reflector. You get a diffuser and 4 reflector panels - silver, gold. black, and white. A 40" reflector folds to under 9".

+1 to that suggestion. Also - in case anyone was wondering - the "5th" item is usually the translucent inner ring that the other items are zipped over.

Here's a shot of mine in action ...

[Crovean]

+1 for the 5 in 1. I got mine from Amazon for less than 20$ shipped.

[Glenn NK]

I have the 5n1 which I use it extensively for flower photography.

With the reflector sleeve off, the diffuser is invaluable under strong sunlight for flower work (cuts the glare from direct sun).

In the evening, I often use it to direct some skylight (fill light) onto a flower to illuminate shadow areas. For warm coloured flowers, the gold reflector is effective.

I never leave home without my 5n1.

Glenn

[rpcrowe]

I have a 5-in-1 reflector which I got from eBay and promptly lost. I just found it... I received it right after Christmas and my wife packed it away with the Christmas decorations....

BTW Colin... That's a cute reflector stand that you use...

[Photon Hacker]

Thanks you.

[dan marchant]

My inquire is about nomenclature. Is a diffuser the same as a scrim, white reflector or translucent?.

Yes I believe a diffuser is the same as a scrim, but not a white reflector. Diffusers let light through but scatter it to make it softer, while reflectors bounce light that is coming from another source.

[Colin Southern]

BTW Colin... That's a cute reflector stand that you use...

Free to a good home!

[mariaramil]

Would strongly suggest getting a 5-in-1 collapsible reflector. You get a diffuser and 4 reflector panels - silver, gold. black, and white. A 40" reflector folds to under 9".

I agree: these little gadgets are very light, collapse to a reasonable size, and can be used in many tricky lighting situations indoors and outdoors . Shame an assistant didn't come with mine and I can only manage them with reasonably still subjects... but I still think the 5 in 1 is a great investment

[Ollokot]

Hi Folks,
I'm about to purchase a 5 in 1 at an outlet about 35 miles away from me,the brand that they stock is Interfit and was wondering about the quality of the brand as I'd like to get one with a bit of quality,anyone know this brand,
Best Wishes Pat

[Donald]

Hi Folks,
I'm about to purchase a 5 in 1 at an outlet about 35 miles away from me,the brand that they stock is Interfit and was wondering about the quality of the brand as I'd like to get one with a bit of quality,anyone know this brand,
Best Wishes Pat

Sorry Pat, I don't know that name. I get the impression that all seem to be much the same, with the retailers putting their name on them. So, I don't know if there is one manufacturer out there making them all for a number of outlets.

[Ollokot]

Thank you Donald.Here is the aforementioned item,

[Donald]

Looks the same, sounds the same and is about the same price as the one I just got from Warehouse Express.

[Craigs]

I use one of these its an interfit Large Flat Panel Reflector (89 x 178cm). Absolutely brilliant can be turned 360 degrees has removable and replaceable covers for gold, silver and white reflectors.

I couldnt recommend highly enough.

[hoffstriker]

Interfit is a discount brand. Not bad quality but does wrinkle quite a bit. For the money, a good deal and product. If you want higher end, go with a Lastolite, but expect to pay way more. Not worth the extra cost if you ask me.

[Craigs]

I have had the interfit for over two years now and not a crinkle, tear or rip insight. I use it all the time an excellent bit of kit IMHO.
Craig

[hoffstriker]

I have had the interfit for over two years now and not a crinkle, tear or rip insight. I use it all the time an excellent bit of kit IMHO.
Craig

You're probably a lot nicer on your equipment than I, Craig. LOL

[Craigs]

lol