A light modifier is a device that alters the shape and/or quality of a light source. This post will explore how to make your own DIY light modifiers, ranging from using household lights, diffusers, or deflectors.
Table of Contents
Household Lights
Household lights can be used for a variety of purposes, such as lighting a scene in a shot or creating a beautiful portrait light.
To use a household light as a modifier, you will need to first determine what effect you want to create. For example, if you want to create a softer light, you can place the light source behind a sheer curtain. Conversely, if you want to create a harsher light, you can place the light source in front of a window.
Another way to use a household light is to place it behind your subject to create a backlight. You can also use this technique to create a rim light, which is a light that outlines your subject’s silhouette.
Photographic Modifier
A photographic modifier is used to change the quality of light. It can be used to soften the light, create a more directional light, or change the color of the light.
Reflectors
Foam core is a cheap and effective reflector for light. Foil reflects sunlight back onto the subject, filling in any harsh shadows.
Another option for a reflector is to use a white sheet or poster board. This will create a softer light than using foil.
If you are looking for a more directional light, you can use a silver reflector. A silver reflector will create a harder light than using a white reflector.
Diffusers
A common lighting challenge is finding ways of softening too-harsh light.
Diffusers are used to soften light sources. Clipping parchment paper to the light’s barn doors works as well.
Another option for diffusing light is to use a translucent fabric, such as tulle. You can also place the diffusion material in front of the light source, which will create a softer light.
Lastly, if you are looking for a more permanent solution, you can purchase a softbox or an octabox. These devices diffuse the light and create a more flattering light.
Getting Your Domes Ready For Shooting
Dome lights can be modified to fit any situation or scenario.
For example, if you want to create a more flattering light for your subject, you can attach a diffuser to the front of the dome.
Gels can be attached to the dome light by using gel frames or by using gaffer’s tape.
Small Dome
The small dome was easily made shoot-ready by removing the inner workings and then simply resting it in a current reflector dish.
The small dome setup is shoot-ready without any additional preparation.
The large dome set-up requires a bit more work, but not much.
Large Dome
The large dome was taped snugly onto an old speed-ring which enabled me to attach it to my light horizontally if needed.
If you want to use a large dome light modifier, you will need to first create a speed-ring. This can be done by using an old light stand or by using a clamp.
Once you have created your speed-ring, you can then attach the large dome light modifier. You can do this by using tape or by using clamps.
The Setup
To shoot the model with a key light, you’ll need two lights: one to illuminate the subject and another to add fill.
To shoot with an orange gelled light, you’ll need a large reflector, hard light modifier, and softbox.
You can create very simple setups like this using just two lights or more complex setups involving multiple lights.
The important thing is to always think about how you want the light to fall on your subject.
With a little bit of practice, you’ll be able to create any type of lighting scenario you can imagine.
Beauty Dish Images
A beauty dish is a middle ground between a bare flashlight with harsh shadows and a softbox, working best for portraits.
An umbrella can be used to create beauty dish light; you can build a beauty dish out of an Ikea organizer for $13.
The beauty dish creates a flattering light that is less harsh than a bare flashlight, but more directional than a softbox.
It is important to keep in mind that the beauty dish produces a more narrow light source, so it is not ideal for shooting large groups of people.
Small Dome Images
The small dome was easily made shoot-ready by removing the inner workings and then simply resting it in a current reflector dish.
The large dome took a little more work, but not much. I simply removed the inner workings once again and then found an old speed-ring to attach it too.
A speed-ring is the metal rotating mount that attaches modifiers like softboxes to your flash head.
Large Dome Images
The larger dome took a little more work, but not much. I simply removed the inner workings once again and then found an old speed-ring to attach it too.
I’m using LED modeling bulbs in my flash heads which produce very little heat. If your flash heads have tungsten modeling bulbs, these globes will get VERY HOT as there is nowhere for the heat to escape when the globes are in position on the heads. Be sure to turn them down or off entirely.
A small dome setup is used for images that are smaller in size and do not require a lot of room.
The small dome setup can be used for various purposes such as product photography, video footage, or web graphics.
The small dome setup provides an easy way to take high-quality photos and videos without having to deal with distortion or other issues.
Conclusion
DIY light modifiers are a great way to save money and get creative with your lighting.
There are many different ways to make your own light modifiers, so be sure to experiment and find what works best for you.
