Soft light refers to light that, visually, seems to wrap around objects, creating soft, diffused shadows with less contrast. It occurs when the size of a light source is relatively larger in comparison to the subject. Soft light is a very important element in underwater photography if you want to get the best photos. And this is where underwater strobe light diffusers come into play. Strobe light diffusers are used to produce a wide light beam with soft edges that extend around the strobe. Here are some of the benefits of using diffusers in underwater photography.
Why use Diffusers?
The enormous increase in the light emitting surface available along with the diffuser shape and material produces a nice, uniform light with very soft edges, making edge lighting easier. The distance from the subject to the strobe at which good light is feasible is decreased immensely, even in gloomy conditions, leading to less backscatter and excellent wide angle compositions. Unlike land photography, which offers several light softening resources such as bouncing lights off walls or ceilings or diffusing lights through larger surfaces, underwater photography offers limited resources with light being emitted from a small source. This creates sharp shadows and favors backscatter. By using diffusers, you will not have to worry about this.
The diffusers work well for both wide angle and macro shots, and provide great side lighting. The softer and more diffused shadows allow you to easily illuminate those shy creatures that tend to hide in coral branches. A number of silvery fish often cause distracting reflections, particularly when they form a school, because it becomes very difficult to control the light angle for each fish simultaneously. But the soft light from the strobe light diffusers makes it much easier. If you want to use a single strobe without compromising good lighting, then diffusers would prove helpful as well.
