printable version

Four steps to better flash results

Using your camera's pop-up flash can produce harsh and unattractive results. For those of us who haven't got the spare cash to splash out on a hotshoe mounted flashgun, a small diffuser is the next best thing. Raid the fridge for an empty plastic milk carton and dig out the scissors for some serious DIY flash-diffuser action.

1. Lotta bottle Next time you go to the shops, grab a six-pint carton of milk. The opaque plastic is the perfect gauge to diffuse the light just enough without losing too much power.	2. Cut it out Before it goes into the recycling box, cut out the carton's handle section. The diameter is perfect for a snug fit, but leaves enough space for diffusing the light.	3. The slits To enable the diffuser to slip comfortably over the flash, cut a slit down the whole length of the handle (splitting it in half) before sliding it over your flash.	4. Trim it You'll want to look cool on the streets and keep the size small enough to fit in your pocket so trim the plastic, leaving a centimetre each side for maximum effect.

See the results of your home-made flash diffuser...

The highlights are quite a bit stronger and the skin tones are less flattering.		The flash temperature is warmer and the highlights are less harsh.

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