Question - Softening torch light

[zombizza]

Hi
Just wondered what people do to soften their torch spotlight.
My pics have a horrendous big circle of light appearance. I guess there are some ways (probably obvious) to diffuse the edges out a bit. I'm yet to get a good shot in total darkness. (my torch is a cree thingy by the way)
cheers

 

[Nickindroy]

Waggle it about like a madman mate.

 

[zombizza]

ok, i spose thats an option. I always find that upsets the shadows a lot though. ie as you move it around the shadows will shift, and so you dont get clear cut shadows, if that makes sense. And then if you spend a bit more time shining in a couple of areas, you get double shadow effect.I might try making some sort of diffuser to put on the torch. Just to soften it a bit.

 

[Oxygen Thief]

Move the torch about. You might need to close the aperture and increase the exposure if you're lighting a larger area.

 

[Oxygen Thief]

I always try and allow an extra 5 seconds of no light to bring the shadows back in, nice and soft they'll be as well.

 

[zombizza]

ok, perhaps the best bet is for me to have a play in my bedroom better than me leaving it til the heat of the moment in a great location
cheers for the tips

 

[Oxygen Thief]

There's various things to try. You can light the ceiling above you on a longer exposure, or use the torch on low power. These will all make a difference of some description to the picture.

 

[raisinwing]

I tend to do some waggling and then light up the ceiling for a bit to get some nice shadows and even coverage.

 

[Oxygen Thief]

I tend to do some waggling and then light up the ceiling for a bit to get some nice shadows and even coverage.

Same here.