Diffuser panel - alternative for softbox | Soften flash light

The best method to create a softer light source from the camera flash is to invest in softbox that mounts over your flash. However, the disadvantage is they’re small softboxes, so the light doesn’t spread and soften as much as you’d probably like.

To over come this problem is to shoot the flash directly through a large diffusion panel, which is a large white translucent piece of fabric that spreads and diffuses the light. You can look for Lastolite TriGrip 33" 1 Stop Diffuser. It is lightweight, cheap (you can get one at B&H Photo), and it collapses down into a very small, circular carrying case, so it’s easy to take with.

However, you'll need to have an assistant in order to use this diffuser to hold the panel about 1 foot or more in front of the flash. When the tiny light from the flash hits the panel, it causes the light to spread out dramatically, which gives you much softer, smoother, more flattering light. You can also clamp your diffuser on a second light stand using a Bogen/Manfrotto mini-clamp which you can find it cheap in accessories shop.

Techniques of using cameras flashes