Gary Fong has revealed its latest flash lighting modifier, the Lightsphere Collapsible Speed Mount. Now in its fifth generation, the divisive, but much-emulated, photography accessory has gained a new mounting system which not only fits bulkier flashes, but also allows it to be attached and removed easier and faster.
The Lightsphere Collapsible Speed Mount is a lighting modifier which attaches to an external flash unit and diffuses its output. Because it takes the shape of a large cylinder dome on the top of your flash, it diffuses the output in all directions and can be used to give a softer and more even lighting effect. Domes with different finishes can also be added to the top of the Lightsphere to change the color output.
The latest version still collapses down to a thickness of 1.5 in (3.8 cm) for easy carrying, but has a big change in the way it mounts to your flash. While most of the previous Lightspheres needed to be wedged over the flash, the new Speed Mount version features a strap which is pulled tight to attach it securely. This means it will give an equally tight fit on small flashes and larger ones like the Nikon SB910 and Canon 600EX-RT (which could be a squeeze with previous models). It's also easier and quicker to attach or remove.
Released alongside the Lightsphere Collapsible Speed Mount, is an equally Speed Mount-equipped Speed Snoot. While the Lightsphere aims to diffuse and soften light, the collapsible Speed Snoot is designed to give more directional control over an off-camera flash. This can be particularly useful if you only want to light part of a wider subject. Because the Speed Snoot has a black finish, it blocks the light spilled out of the sides of the diffuser, meaning users can focus light into the areas they want, and away from those they don't.
The Lightsphere Collapsible Speed Mount will be available shortly at a price of US$60, while the Speed Snoot will retail for $65.
A number of new Lightsphere-based kits are also being made available which include additional items like bags, a selection of domes, gel kits, and instructional DVDs. They're targeted at wedding, portrait and fashion photographers.
Product page: Lightsphere Collapsible Speed Mount