Softboxes, also known as lightbanks, are rectangular enclosures positioned over the light source, typically a flash, to impart a softening effect. These versatile devices generate diffused and directional light, akin to the gentle illumination filtering through a window.

If you already possess some lighting equipment, you might consider individual diffusers, although acquiring them separately may not be as cost-effective as buying a bundled kit.

Diffused lightCeiling

Join us as we delve into the world of diffused light, exploring why it deserves your attention and how it can transform the way you perceive and experience the spaces around you.

On a sunny day, when dealing with harsh sunlight, employing a light modifier becomes essential. An excellent choice is a 5-in-1 reflector, offering versatility without the need for additional lights, stands, or power sources.

It's a great cheap accessory, but you're still getting three levels os brightness to choose from here - a feature that you might not expect from a device sitting under $20 / £20. Plus, the quick setup and excellent portability here also lends itself well to other applications - like attaching the ring light to your laptop to help its built-in webcam during meetings.

Diffused light refers to light with a uniform concentration throughout its beam. Also recognized as “soft light,” it evenly scatters light across a surface or subject, resulting in softened shadows and a more flattering image.

One of my earliest memories is playing SuperMario64 and wondering why the controller I held had three grips, but I only had two hands. Ever since I've been in love with video games and their technology. After graduating from Edinburgh Napier University with a degree in Journalism, I contributed to the Scottish Games Network and completed an Editorial Internship at Expert Reviews. Over the last decade, I’ve been managing my own YouTube channel about my love of games too. These days, I'm one of the resident hardware nerds at GamesRadar+, and I take the lead on our coverage of gaming PCs, VR, controllers, gaming chairs, and content creation gear. Now, I better stop myself here before I get talking about my favourite games like HUNT: Showdown, Dishonored, and Towerfall Ascension. Location: UK Remote

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Getting into game streaming can be a costly affair - with all the capture cards, service subscriptions, cameras, mics, and some of the best headphones or best gaming headsets required for a fully professional setup. While all that gear is necessary to a high-quality stream, getting your lighting just right can also elevate your broadcasts and many ignore this aspect when first starting up.

Conversely, on rough surfaces, even microscopic irregularities contribute to the overall surface roughness. While this phenomenon adheres to the law of reflection, wherein each ray reflects back at the same angle it initially struck the object, the direction of reflection varies.

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All light functions are controllable via Razer Synapse on Windows or the Razer Streaming mobile app. While these apps do work perfectly fine for controlling basic functions, we found them to be a bit limited in terms of on the fly changes and full integration with your stream. There’s no Elgato Stream Deck or hotkey support available and connections to alert services like LumiaStream are extremely limited.

The Lumecube ring light pro is a pro-grade ring light that's an extremely versatile tool for content creators. It's a great size at 17.5-inches, since it's big enough to light bigger scenes, but not overbearing or difficult to manoeuvre.

For an even softer lighting effect, consider using two layers of bubble wrap. This simple yet inventive technique adds a touch of creativity to light diffusion.

For further exploration into lighting terminology and its applications, including the meaning of CCT (Correlated Color Temperature), delve into our comprehensive guide on cct lighting meaning.

For your money, you do get an awful lot here - there's a convenient carry case, a great stand that can tilt, extend, and the ring light itself has bundled options for mounting smartphones and cameras alike. All-in-all, this is a super ring light for content creators.

Alternatively, on cloudy days, nature provides an advantageous setting. Overcast conditions may not yield the most dramatic landscape photos, but the diffuse light created by the flat skies serves as a natural and effective diffuser, particularly beneficial for portrait photography.

However, the Razer Kiyo offers an all-in-one solution to this common problem, with a ring light built into a 1080p webcam and a handy piece of Synapse software for easy configuration and controls.

There's little wonder this is one of the go-to options for vlogging ring lights. You're getting excellent power, plenty of flexibility, and an ultra-portable device for a great price here. It is worth noting, however, that the attached smartphone holder won't allow for vertical shooting.

One of the best things about Lume Cube's Ring Light Pro is how well and how easily it controls. The back of the ring features an LCD display which shows you how the battery life is lasting, as well as what settings the light itself is shining at. As if that wasn't enough, you also get a handy remote control so you can adjust light levels and temperatures without having to leave the shot. That's super useful, and if you make content as a 1-person crew, worth having.

Perhaps the most impressive feature here, especially considering the price, is the 80W equivalent power output. Though temperature can only be adjusted through filters (not through inbuilt settings like other models), you're getting plenty of customization with both temperature and color options included. Battery-powered and lightweight, the Rotolight kit is extremely portable, especially thanks to that collapsable design.

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As a result, diffuse light is created—scattered light that undergoes a change in direction due to the surface irregularities. This scattering process is responsible for the diffusion and softening of the light beam.

You don't need to break the bank either, you'll find cheap ring lights available for as little as $20 / £20, and adding one to your everyday setup will instantly lift your photography.

A dedicated softbox lighting kit is an excellent starting point, offering a versatile option. Alternatively, an umbrella diffuser is effective, though not as adaptable as softboxes. Both options present relatively affordable ways to diffuse light in your video projects.

This Neewer ring light certainly provides plenty of coverage, with a massive 20-inch diameter light that can be fixed onto a supplied 36-inch - 78.7-inch stand. While you're dropping a little power here, with 44W of output that then drops down to 34W when running off battery power, there's a balance here that gives you a wider expanse of softer lighting.

Even from the image above, a notable difference is evident. Diffused light creates a more natural, healthy appearance and, in an interesting twist, can assist in balancing color temperature when using the same light diffuser (or DIY material) on various lights.

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To achieve a naturally diffused close-up, position your subject near a window not directly exposed to sunlight. For an even softer effect, consider drawing a curtain across the window, ensuring it has some level of translucency.

You're trading that extra power in for a range of extra quality of life features here. At such a low price point, that's a valuable trade if you're looking to record closer shots for a vlog or Instagram Live, for example. Overall, you're getting a flexible, USB-powered device with a super low maintenance setup for a great price.

Direct light tends to cast harsh, unnatural shadows, earning it the descriptor “sourcey” as it blatantly reveals the placement of off-screen light heads. This becomes particularly distracting when peculiar shadows obstruct an actor’s face, hindering the audience’s ability to perceive the conveyed emotions.

However, relying on agreeable clouds is not always feasible. In such cases, your most practical solution is to acquire a good lighting kit, ideally one that incorporates a diffuser.

While LED lighting panels can be great for broader set lighting, ring lights are a fantastic way to create even lighting for portrait and close-ups, particularly if the camera is focusing on a face. For streaming, ring lights are definitely advantageous since any "face cam" portions of the screen will be fairly close-up, and will require concentrated light on a small area.

All of the Razer Key Light Chroma’s current weaknesses are software related but easily improved. Right now it’s a great option for creators looking to set up their look and stick with it but for those looking to be more dynamic it may be worth holding tight and tracking progress on the software side. Overall though, the Razer Key Light Chroma is a powerful, high-quality option.

As a cinematographer, your objective is to immerse the audience in the narrative, making them forget they’re watching a film. The use of diffused light facilitates this by concealing the origin of each light source striking the subject.

The best ring lights might seem like overkill, but depending on your content creation plans, they might be exactly what you're missing. If you want to equally distribute light in a close-up shot or stream scene, it doesn't get much easier than with a great ring light. There's a reason they've proven so popular in the last few years, and that's because you get a great lighting solution with next to no fuss.

Diffused lightphotography

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These lanterns offer the advantage of diffusing light in multiple directions simultaneously, showcasing their versatility. Chinese lanterns are available in various sizes and colors, with the all-white ones being particularly effective for traditional light diffusion. For more unconventional lighting effects, consider experimenting with colored lanterns.

These professional silks, available in various sizes and typically mounted on a metal frame, effectively diffuse light when strategically placed in this setup. If you’re working within budget constraints, a comparable effect can be achieved using a sheer piece of fabric readily available, such as a white bed sheet or a clear shower curtain liner.

Another significant effect of employing soft light is the broader beam angle it provides. This proves beneficial when illuminating larger areas, especially if your lights have a narrow and concentrated spread.

While you can get some serious power from larger ring lights, it's often the smaller devices that prove more useful. If you're simply looking to improve selfies or quick shots on your smartphone, the Xinbaohong ring light is a perfect accessory to add a little extra illumination whenever you need it.

Finding diffused light indoors is easily achieved through window light. Numerous natural-light photo studios strategically incorporate south-facing windows to harness consistent, diffused light throughout the day.

The ESDDI 18-inch bi-color ring light is as big as it is powerful. You're getting some excellent value for money here, with a 45W power output through 432 LEDs. The result is incredibly bright but still manages to ensure a softened finish with reduced shadows.

Webcams have a tricky job for us streamers. We ask them to capture our faces, usually in low light scenes with lots of RGB, and we still expect loads of clarity when we then scale down the footage to an eighth of a display. Ring lights can be super helpful because they help to balance that lighting. If you can't afford the best gear for streaming, ring lights are a clever way of making an average webcam look like it has much better production value. You don't need to limit yourself to a giant piece of set lighting that'll give off equivalent temperatures of the sun for a smaller stream scene. You can pick up a much smaller, much more efficient ring light that will be everything you need for content creation.

These accessories easily attach to your camera and employ various materials to soften the harshness of the flash. The market offers diverse models, each presenting a unique approach to light diffusion. Some diffusers work by bouncing light off the ceiling and channeling the rest directly toward the subject through the fabric, while others reflect the flash off a panel within the diffuser before guiding it through the fabric towards the subject.

However, it’s essential to note a potential drawback of diffusing light sources: a reduction in output. The addition of diffusion material softens the light but simultaneously decreases the exposure on the subject.

These papers deliver a uniform field of soft light, ideal for gently enhancing the overall appearance of a shot. Available in various finishes similar to tracing paper, they offer different lighting effects.

Whether it’s a white poster board, a whiteboard, or even white walls/ceilings, these surfaces can effectively bounce soft light. To achieve light diffusion through bouncing, direct your light source toward the chosen semi-reflective white surface. The light reflects off this surface, creating a secondary source that bathes your subject in diffused light.

In cinematography, the avoidance of harsh shadows is often crucial to maintain the intended mood or style of a scene. Soft light, with its ability to create subtle and less distracting shadows, becomes a preferred choice.

If it's TikTok you need one of the best ring lights for, you'll most likely want one that's geared toward working with a phone. In our experience, these usually tend to be a bit cheaper, and since you'll do most of your TikTok creation on your phone, it makes sense to get a ring light that will suit that. From our list, we'd recommend the ESDDI 18-inch ring light, or the ESDDI 10-inch ring light.

In contrast, hard light creates sharp shadows and a more focused light distribution. Neither soft nor hard light is inherently superior; the choice depends on the desired look and feel for the image.

Understanding diffuse lighting is crucial for achieving desired visual effects in various settings, whether it’s in photography, cinematography, or interior design. By dispersing light evenly across a surface, diffuse lighting eliminates harsh shadows and creates a soft, flattering illumination that enhances the overall atmosphere of a scene or space.

Achieving diffused light outdoors involves considering the desired aesthetic and leveraging either personal interventions or the natural elements.

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Ensure that the light source is aimed away from the subject, allowing only the bounced light to be utilized, not direct light. This technique enhances the overall lighting quality by softening shadows and providing a pleasing, diffused illumination for your subject.

Photography umbrellas serve as user-friendly tools that diffuse light in two distinct ways – by reflecting light off their surface or by diffusing it through the material.

Imagine you’re filming outdoors, and the noonday sun is casting harsh shadows on your subject. Erecting an overhead sheet may not be practical, but waiting for a passing cloud can act as a natural diffuser, producing even light distribution.

You'll also find a smooth dimming adjustment here, moving from 1% to 100%. That's perfect for finding that perfect shot, as other models will lock you into one of around ten brightness settings with little movement for flexibility. Add to that the wide-angle range achieved through a malleable, 270° base plate and you've got a fully customizable ring light perfect for shooting high-quality video.

That said, if you're after a high-end stream it's better off to advance onto a separate camera and ring light system for extra features, better brightness, and a higher resolution picture quality.

That's a considerable light spread as well. A 20-inch ring light is larger than average, with these devices usually maxing out at 18-inches. That wider field of illumination is perfect if you're looking for a ring light to record makeup tutorials or to offer natural lighting for makeup application.

One intriguing aspect of using a diffuser is its compatibility with reflective materials for bouncing light. This combination offers control over the light’s direction, intensity, and the level of detail it reveals.

In short, yes. They may have become a bit of a trend over the past few years, but that's for good reason. The best ring lights provide extra illumination in your shots, distribute light in camera shots better than a lot of alternatives, and soften harsher shadows and contours to create a more polished picture. Plus, continuous lighting ensures you'll always have control over your shots regardless of environmental conditions or the time of day.

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In our testing, the all-metal body came across as very professional, and the included desk mounting arm was rock solid. With 2800 lumens of lighting power from its large, rounded rectangular panel the Razer Key Light Chroma also gave us more punch than you’re ever going to need. There’s a wide colour temperature range available, though fractionally less than Elgato’s Key Light, with step-less transitions from the toasty warm 3000K to icy cold blue 7000K.

Be sure to take a look at the best Razer streaming gear if you're serious about your content creation loadout. You'll want to sound your best, so also check out our microphone for streaming and gaming.

While this method may not yield identical results to a more sophisticated professional diffuser, it does contribute to light softening and aids in minimizing harsh transitions and shadows. Any light-colored sheer fabric can be utilized as a diffuser, and in a pinch, even a tissue can serve the purpose of a makeshift diffuser.

In summary, whether harnessing the soft glow of natural window light or utilizing sophisticated light modifiers, the possibilities for creating diverse and appealing indoor lighting are extensive.

The Rotolight Ultimate Vlogging kit gives you plenty of power for your cash - and all in a compact, easy to transport package. That's perfect for content creators looking to record both on the go and in a home set up. You'll find a small tabletop tripod in this bundle, with a smartphone holder and ring light sitting beside each other on the stand. It's certainly a durable base, and you'll also be able to fix a DSLR or mirrorless camera onto the stand as well.

Additionally, direct light has limitations in creating a balanced and even frame around the subject. Scattered, diffuse light gracefully fills the space, avoiding overwhelming brightness or dark voids. Achieving a uniformly lit frame is crucial for cinematic shots, enhancing the depth of the scene. This can be challenging when relying solely on direct light sources, especially in confined spaces.

Procuring China balls is convenient, as they are accessible online, in most home décor stores, and at Asian markets. To grasp their application, envision hanging several lanterns from the ceiling to gently illuminate a scene, or opt for a single lantern to create a cozy ambiance in intimate settings, such as a restaurant dinner conversation.

For those seeking complete control over lighting, employing a softbox or other light modifier is a valuable option. Positioning the softbox at a thirty-degree angle from your subject produces a flattering look, or you can experiment with different light positions to discover a variety of looks and moods achievable with just one or two lights.

The mechanism of most softboxes involves a reflective material lining that bounces light through a sheer fabric, contributing to the desired softened effect. When opting for a softbox, ensure that it can handle the wattage of the light source to avoid potential fire hazards associated with mismatched equipment.

There’s a hidden trick behind the opaque white panel though: RGB. It is a Razer product after all. The Key Light Chroma offers a choice of 16.8 million colours and a suite of customisable lighting effects which really set this light apart from competitors and proved that in our testing. The brightness and saturation of the colours are strong and the creative potential this offers streamers is rather impressive.

To counteract this, it is advisable to use stronger light sources when planning to diffuse them, ensuring proper scene exposure even after the diffusion process.

There are plenty of great brands out there when you're trying to get one of the best ring lights for streaming. We'd argue that Esddi has one of the best all round options in its 18-inch ring light. Neewer also has a solid range of sizes to suit different creators, and of course Razer can throw its hat in the ring with its ring light, its key light, and its original Kiyo webcam which doubles as a ring light and camera all in one.

These light-diffusing materials are cost-effective. In case of improvisation, consider using wax paper for a similar effect. However, it’s crucial to note that wax paper should only be employed for diffusing LED lighting. Exercise caution and avoid using wax paper with tungsten lights, as there is a potential fire hazard associated with such usage.

Experiment with an array of materials and objects to discover the range of diffusion possibilities. Consider using items like bath towels, visqueen, paper towels, white t-shirts or dress shirts, printer paper, and even opaque Tupperware. This experimentation allows for a personalized touch, enabling you to achieve unique and soft lighting effects tailored to your specific needs.

In the realm of lighting, the term “diffused light” holds more significance than one might initially realize. It transcends the boundaries of mere illumination, impacting the mood, aesthetics, and functionality of a space.

When a light beam encounters a smooth surface, the majority of it reflects back with the same concentration, resulting in what is known as specular reflection. This type of reflection produces direct and intense light, with a mirror serving as a common example of a smooth surface leading to specular reflection.

Understanding diffused light and its applications is not just for enthusiasts of interior design; it is a concept that can influence our daily lives in subtle yet profound ways. This form of lighting has the power to soften shadows, reduce glare, and create a more evenly illuminated environment.

While the previous explanation might not be textbook material, it covers enough basics to provide an understanding of the significance of diffused light. Now, let’s delve into the exciting part—seeing it in action and exploring what you need to enhance the quality of your lighting equipment.

For light diffusion through reflection, direct the light source towards a silver or white umbrella, redirecting the light away from the subject. To diffuse light through the umbrella, opt for one made from sheer material, and position it in front of the light source with the aim of illuminating the subject effectively.

However, one of the main draws here lies in the portability and flexibility of this larger light. It's rare to find such a large and powerful device with a focus on convenience, and especially at this price point. While you've still got a considerable amount of kit to move, the option to power the Neewer light via a Sony NP-F battery makes for easy wire-free shooting, especially with the included Bluetooth remote. You'll also receive an extra battery and a charger included with this price, as well as the full tripod stand, camera and phone adapters, and carry case.

While that bag is included, however, this might not be the best model for quickly using on the go. Assembly is easy, but with the stand and large size of the light itself, it's not the most portable device on this list. That means it's best used in a semi-permanent setup, as opposed to the tabletop or handheld options designed for vlogging or selfies.

"You don’t need a better camera, you need better lighting" is the advice we see often shared with streamers looking to improve their production and the brand has stepped up to the plate with its Razer streaming solution, the Key Light Chroma. Sharing more than just a name with Elgato’s offering, the Razer Key Light Chroma looks eerily similar to its rival but shines when the lights come on.

Bubble wrap, a plastic packing material featuring tiny air-filled bubbles, serves as a cushioning material. To diffuse light using bubble wrap, cut a two-foot-long strip and securely wrap it around your camera’s flash. Fasten it in place using Velcro, gaffer’s tape, or a rubber band. Ensure that there is ample space left over the top after wrapping the bubble material around the flash.

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If you're looking for a smaller ring light suitable for smartphones, the EDSSI 10-inch light offers a flexible, portable device for keeping vlogs and direct-to-camera pieces bright and soft on a budget. This is a tabletop design, so you can easily set up and get going and though you're only getting 10W of power here, a much smaller diameter means you're getting a far more concentrated light source perfect for closer shots.

Typically, professional silks are fabrics positioned between the light source and the subject to achieve a diffused lighting effect. While white bed sheets and clear shower curtain liners work effectively, you can unleash your creativity and still attain pleasing, soft light with alternative options.

If you're a content creator or streamer, the benefits are obvious - but those working from home and seeking a higher quality webcam experience will also appreciate a more professional aesthetic.

You're certainly getting plenty of kit here, with an included adjustable stand reaching up to 99-inches in height, an attached phone holder (suitable for 60mm - 80mm wide devices), and a kit bag to carry it all in.

There are ten brightness levels to choose from, with a range of temperatures between them and a Bluetooth remote control supplied to easily adjust settings while in front of the camera. That's perfect for getting your shot just right while still in front of the camera, making setup in difficult environmental conditions even easier.

What isdiffused lightfor plants

That gives you everything you need to get started in a package that comes in at under $100 / £100. It's an excellent package for beginners testing the waters without wanting to invest in high-end gear, offering advanced autofocus features, and low-light correction as well. There's an 81.6-degree field of view baked into this camera as well, which makes for a nice wider angle shot without dropping that level of detail offered by the lens itself.

Diffused light finds widespread use in interviews, commercials, and films for several reasons, primarily owing to its flattering quality. Soft light minimizes the harsh definition of wrinkles and facial features, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Easily tucked away in a bag and USB rechargeable, the 90mm light clips onto the top of your phone to provide 40 LEDs worth of extra illumination. It's a quick and easy solution to low lighting issues, or to enhance footage on the go without requiring a full ring light set up. Simply attach the ring light onto your phone so that the front-facing camera sits in the center and you'll see a dramatic improvement in the quality of your shots.

Similar to softboxes, an umbrella is affixed to the light source and is commonly crafted from white fabric or a metallic silver material. Both types effectively diffuse light and are budget-friendly, with some options costing less than twelve dollars.

The light itself is excellent for balancing out shots, and when paired with a webcam like the Razer Kiyo Pro Ultra, it helps create some incredible images. Being able to control the temperature of the light, in particular, is a very nice feature. Natural light from a window can be a really nice inclusion in your shots, and trying to balance it with a cold white light from a lesser ring light can be difficult. So cranking up to a warmer light gives this tool for content creators some added versatility. In an ideal world, for the money you pay, I'd have liked an even broader colour range, but then again that's why key lights exist.

The control it provides not only enhances the visual appeal of your footage but also transforms any light source into a tool for adding depth, interest, or emotion to a shot. This kind of versatility is invaluable for a visual storyteller in any video shoot.

Previously, we touched on motivated lighting, which involves any out-of-frame light source enhancing, spreading, or influencing the practical light in the scene. Utilizing a light diffuser is instrumental in achieving motivated lighting.

Many of the best webcams might have some type of lighting built into them, but like their microphones, we usually find that built-in lights don't tend to be the best quality. A dedicated ring light for streaming can go a long way, and when you're recording videos or trying to pull out all the stops to make your content competitive, you need all the tools you can get.

However, these solutions primarily address video production in a controlled set environment. If you’re shooting outdoors or in a location with natural lighting, relying solely on a softbox or umbrella may not suffice. Perhaps you’re on a budget and can’t invest in a new lighting kit, but you still aspire to create diffused light for your upcoming project. What alternatives are available?

To mitigate these challenges, utilizing light diffusers on both newly-added sources and existing ones is a more effective approach. Diffused light permeates every corner, providing a natural scene without compromising artistic focus or plunging the image into excessive darkness.