In this video photographer David Bergman takes a look at 3 of his favorite light modifiers both for studio work and on-location jobs.
So without too much introduction, we are going to dive right into Bergman’s top 3 choices for light modifiers:
- Photek SoftLighter II 60″ White Umbrella – This is a huge soft light source used by many photographers including Annie Leibovitz, it is simple to use and store/carry and is relatively inexpensive (for the size) at around $150-$160.
- Profoto 50 deg. Magnum Reflector – This is a very different diffuser (it is actually the opposite of the Photek one), it is a strong, hard light source, Bergman works with Profoto but other companies have similar units with different names – see this one for Bowens mounts for example). If you are working with Profoto you are probably already used to their pricing and this modifier is not different at $380.
- MagMod MagBounce – The third pick by Bergman is more for outdoor use and a little bit more affordable. If you are using flashlights and especially if you are shooting on camera as you are running and gunning with a flash – the MagMod MagBounce is a good solution (yes it is a compromise but it has to be in this type of situation. The MagMod MagBounce on its own cost only $44 (but you will need a MagGrip which costs another $25 to hold it on your flash).
Bergman shows some nice examples with a model, demonstrating how each modifier works as a single light with a model in a similar in-studio setup.
Only recently we have looked at Lindsay Adler’s top 3 light modifiers and she had some very different choice which you should consider as well.
You can find many more helpful photography tips on our Photography tips section as well as lighting techniques here on LensVid and find quite a few gear buying guides on our dedicated subsection.
Iddo Genuth 
You can support LensVid by shopping with our affiliate partners
Affiliates: Amazon, B&H, Adorama and E-bay.
Why should you trust us?