I've had a pack of ExpoImaging Rogue FlashBenders sitting around for a while now. I decided to take them with me to my last workshop at Precision-Camera University. I figured I'd kill two birds with one stone. This way I could teach the class on how to use studio lighting with the NEW Westcott Spiderlite TD6's, but also spend a few minutes showing what I travel with as a very portable speedlight lighting kit. Normally I travel with a Nikon SB-900 speedlight, Westcott shoot-through umbrella and small light stand for off camera flash. I had these elements with me in my carryon and showed the class how to use the umbrella. Then I broke out my Rouge FlashBenders by the same company that gave us ExpoDisc for white balancing our DSLRs.
I was blown away!
They worked way better than I imagined they would. You get 3 FlashBenders in a pack and they are designed to velcro right onto your speedlight. You can then "bend" them to aim the light any way you want. Using the configuration above, I got this shot:
ISO 200, 85mm (Nikon 85mm f/1/4 Lens), f/1.4, 1/125 sec
Next I decided to create a more dramatic look (not something I would do in a beauty setup), but using the medium sized one in a snoot configuration. With it I captured this shot.
ISO 400, 102mm (Nikon VR II 70-200 f/2.8 Lens), f/5.0, 1/80sec
The beauty of these is that they are completely flat when not in use and EASILY fit in the outer pocket of my carryon suitcase. Sure I'll take a giant softbox any day I can get one, but in situations when I'm on the road and taking portraits or lighting other scenes with my speedlights, these are AWESOME!
You can get the Rogue FlashBenders (3 in a set) here from B&H for $104.85 or individually Large $39.95, Small $34.95, or Bounce Card/Flag $29.95. My favorites are the Large and Bounce Card/Flag.
Terry, I think you mean Rogue instead of Rouge. Just FYI. I might just have to get on of these! Thanks for all of your articles.
Thanks! You are correct 🙂
I litterally picked that product up one short week ago. I was researching a few other purchases and stumbles onto it at a local store here in the DC area. Very cool.
Hi Terry,
are there other products in the same league that you are aware of, or have used. I remember Scott Kelby mentioned several accessories of similar nature in his dp books. Don’t remember exactly, but recall Honl. Any thoughts.
The ones I’ve tried to date have all been solid!
I also like the kits from Gary Fong. Not so much bending but still great for the Speedlite.
That’s one hot model in the last shot! Really nice lighting and composition. I envy your job working with these models (especially Jennifer). You can get a 25% off discount on Rogue Flash Benders and their new Rogue Grid using the discount code NAPPGRID.
Can you give me a link on the part these lights mount on. I am new to buying lights and am looking for something like this that is easy to travel with. Thanks in advance for the link.
Hi David, here ya go: http://www.mpex.com/browse.cfm/4,11776.html
Great post and photos! I’ve been shying away from my speedlights lately, but these might get me back into using them on the road. Where did you pick-up the background you used? I’ve been looking for something like that.
I agree Terry, I have been in love with my Flashbenders from the day I first tried them. Very versatile, compact, and throw a lot of light. I highly recommend them. Just got the new Grid and can’t wait to try it out.