Lighting News

Canon just announced the Canon Speedlite 470EX-AI Flash, which the company is calling “a revolutionary new flash system designed with entry-level and enthusiast photographers in mind.”

“Great things are not accomplished by those who yield to trends and fads and popular opinion.”—Jack Kerouac

I doubt anyone could foresee the rapid changes digital technology has brought to photography. As a veteran of the business (40+ years), we have come a long way from the match-needle metering and manual flash units of the past. Heck, I can remember when thyristor circuits were a big deal because they could help us automate flash exposures.

If you’ve wanted to learn more about studio lighting but have been too intimidated to take the plunge, the below video from Mango Street is a great place to get started.

Fotodiox Pro has introduced an assortment of "Factor" lights that let you achieve studio-style results with no hot spots and a single, clean shadow. Designed for both spot illumination and area lighting, the Factor Series includes nine models in a variety of sizes and shapes.

DIY projects are a fun way to make your own gear and save major bucks in the process, and the video below shows you how to construct a sturdy light stand for less than $5 worth of PVC pipe. If you really want to go “pro,” you can drop another $2 on a cheap PVC cutter.

When I first heard about the AlienBees DigiBee flash units, my reaction was probably mirrored by many: An AlienBees light with a digital back, what’s to get excited about? And while the new DigiBee might not have all the whiz-bang features of some of the higher-priced lights on the market, there are several hidden surprises that may make you want to take a look.