Flash diffuser for a T8i?

[stevet1]

Would anyone have a recommendation for a flash diffuser for the on-camera T8i flash?

Steve Thomas

[SignifDigits]

Never tried it but saw a Zeikos Soft Screen Flash Diffuser on a popular auction site.  Looks like it might work, but it also looks like you could just try cutting a sheet of white paper yourself to do the same thing.

[ebiggs1]

The on camera flash on a Rebel is so weak I doubt a diffuser would work very well. I wouldn't do it and if you need to use flash get a real flash.

[shadowsports]

Steve ,

I think Ernie's comment is spot on.  I'm not sure what you're shooting but for real effectiveness. I think you are going to want an on or off camera flash for the best results.  A good choice might be the 430EX III-RT

The people that you'll want to talk to about this are Demetrius, Peter or Mike Sowson.  

[deebatman316]

If you need a flash diffuser I would recommend an external speedlite such as the 430EX III-RT. Also a speedlite is more powerful than the built in flash. Even if its the smallest speedlite such as the 220EX. It would do a much better job than the built in flash.

[stevet1]

To be honest, I think I've used my flash maybe twice in the two years I've had my camera, and that was only for curiosity's sake. The times I did use it, I found the light to be a little harsh.

I have an external flash from an earlier camera, but it's optical only, and I'm still stuck with the on-camera flash.

I was hoping to find a cheap way of softening that on-camera flash. I'd rather take the money I would spend on a speedlite and apply it towards a camera upgrade, but that will take me a couple of years.

Steve Thomas

[SignifDigits]

Gaffers tape and a small piece of diffusion gel would diffuse it - but maybe too much.  Colored gels and tape are a common pro technique, but they also make clear diffuser gels.  And it would be a pain on that tiny flash.

You probably can use something else that you have on-hand like white wrapping tissue, and make a small custom cardboard diffuser for free if you want to experiment.  I enjoy experimentation personally, and white cards and tape are a staple for flash work, and if you have the time and inclination and plan to really use the flash it might be worth your time.

I agree with saving your $$ for a better camera since you really don't use the flash.