| | Location: Home» Camera Store » Accessories » PRESSlite VerteX - Bounce/Diffuse/Reflect Light for Swivel-Head Flash Units: Canon, Kodak, Metz, Minolta, Nikon, Nissin, Olympus, Panasonic, Pentax, Promaster, Quantaray, Samsung, Sigma, Sony, Sunpak | |
|
|
PRESSlite VerteX - Bounce/Diffuse/Reflect Light for Swivel-Head Flash Units: Canon, Kodak, Metz, Minolta, Nikon, Nissin, Olympus, Panasonic, Pentax, Promaster, Quantaray, Samsung, Sigma, Sony, Sunpak | 
 enlarge
| Brand: PRESSlite VerteX
Category: Photography
Buy New: $49.95
Rating:  5 reviews
Media: Electronics
Shipping Weight (lbs): 0.1
Dimensions (in): 3 x 3 x 1
MPN: vtx-10000
Model: vtx-10000
UPC: 860228000004
EAN: 0860228000004
Shipping: Eligible for Super Saver Shipping
Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours
| |
| Features:
| • | 1) hybrid elastomer band with integrated friction mechanism fits virtually all flash heads | | • | 2) continuous rotation 45-degree detents help to make thumb-shifting fast and easy | | • | 3) magnetic coupling offers fluid movement, strong adhesion, quick on/off, breakaway safety release | | • | 4) four-point fingers secure insert using no adhesives | | • | 5,6) white insert projects soft diffused light; mirrored insert redirects full-power light, for the ultimate bounce |
|
| Similar Items:
|
| Editorial Reviews:
Product Description
The PRESSlite VerteX can project diffused and specular light at virtually any angle, in multiple directions simultaneously from a single flash unit. This introduces on-the-go lighting solutions never before possible. It can be instantly transformed into multiple configurations, for tackling virtually any lighting situation. The breakthrough technology enables you to fine-tune your flash output, for stunning, studio-like results. The radical new design offers a host of features not available with any other diffuser or light modifier currently on the market: MULTI-DIMENSIONAL LIGHTING - project multiple, discrete, steerable light sources from a single flash; TARGET BOUNCING - steer and project powerful specular light onto multiple surfaces for the ultimate bounce; THUMB-SHIFT RATIO CONTROL - fastest way to faithfully change the bounce-to-fill ratio with just your thumb; MULTI-PURPOSE PANELS - adjustable, detachable and interchangeable, with just one hand. These panels can also function as "blinders," to control light spills; EXPANDED AVAILABLE ANGLES - combine the agility of the PRESSlite VerteX, together with your swivel-head flash unit, and virtually all angles become available; EXTENDED WIRELESS TRIGGERING - increase the coverage cone for triggering optically controlled slave flashes; ENERGY EFFICIENT - control the throw of light, without weakening it, as is the case with many translucent-type diffusers. In this way, a significant energy savings is realized--longer battery life, faster recycle time, higher f-stop and lower ISO options, helping you go "green" with your flash photography; ALL-IN-ONE DESIGN - go from direct light to diffused light to specular (mirrored) light, or any combo, with a quick twist or tilt; SMALL & LIGHTWEIGHT - facilitate agile manipulation of camera and flash w/o undue stress on the flash head and hot shoe; HOT SHOE or OFF-CAMERA - coordinate amazingly well with flash brackets, tripods, light stands, umbrellas and reflectors.
|
| Customer Reviews:
 Great product but there's a learning curve October 31, 2008
E. Hicaro (Chicago, IL)
I've been on PRESSlite's mailing list since they started their teaser about this product earlier this year. It looked like a great concept and was unlike any of the other flash diffusers out there. I had used the standard pop-on plastic dome (fair results), a Gary Fong lightsphere-like product (too big and heavy), a mini-softbox for speedlights (too flimsy and bulky). When the VerteX finally became available, I ordered mine right away to give it a try.
The VerteX was something new. I immediately used it for an event I was shooting to give it a try. At first it was a little tricky figuring out how to aim the reflectors and which side work best for which shots. I got the hang of it after awhile and liked the results. The trick is know that very minute adjustments in the angle of the reflectors can make major differences in the photos. The mirror side is best for distant shots or for bouncing the light, and the white reflector side is better for closer shots where you're putting light directly on the subject.
The VerteX at first seems fragile, but the parts are flexible and durable. They can take a hit and survive. The whole device weighs only ounces, too, and fits in a pocket. The GF lightsphere is a monster in comparison, and puts a lot of stress on the flash's hotshoe. One good hit and there goes your flash.
The VerteX gives you a great degree of flash control - much better than simply tilting the head or using a plain diffuser. By the same token, it takes practice to use the device correctly, so don't blame the product if you think you're going to take great shots as soon as you start using it.
I'm a pro and have used this for shooting several events so far. I'm very happy with it now that I've learned to use it correctly, plus my clients like the way their photos have turned out as well.
 Vertex bounce flash attachment October 28, 2008
M. Flood (Central Illinois, USA)
I didn't find it the wonder product the literature made me think it would be.
I found the instructions somewhat puzzling. Having to rely on B&W photos which had very little detail was not helpful. Better pictures with greater detail would be nice, especially for a product designed for photographers with enough experience to want a more versative bounce flash.
I find it awkward to pack away in my camera bag.
I think if I had seen this, assembled, on a camera, in a store I would not have bought it. Price was higher than when it was announced on web ads and was still a "gleam in the inventors eye"
Remarkable Invention October 28, 2008
Ted Scott (Toronto)
I think this clever gadget is a remarkable invention which will invigorate the use of on-camera flash by enabling high quality bounced light onto the subject rather than the harsh light of direct on-camera flash. I bought one, but it won't fit onto my Vivitar 285HV, perhaps the Presslite's only flaw. A more adjustable, universal adapter would be a terrific improvement.
Well built innovative light modifier for flash units October 4, 2008
Tony W. (Sylva, NC)
1 out of 1 found this review helpful
I just received mine from Amazon at 30% off because of I was able to take advantage of the specials I found on [...]. I find it to be very well made in every aspect. Came in a small box and assembly is required. The assembly instruction sheet is very clear with illustrations. No user instruction/manual came with it but their website provides more then enough information to get you started.
I was able to install it on my Sony 58 flash by stretching the band as instructed but now the flash doesn't fit into its very nice case as easily. Had to remove the arms so the head will slide into the case, leaving the band on the head. Now the arms are still attached to the panel assembly. Wish I have a slip case to protect the reflective panels while stored in my camera case. I wrap a micro fiber eyeglass cleaning cloth around the panel assembly and into a small plastic bag to store in my camera case. The shining reflective surfaces does show fingerprints very easily.
Everything works as shown on their website. Haven't had a chance to test this yet since my primary use would be at parties in a large hall with high ceilings and walls in medium colors.
My concern is how much extra work and time to setup each shot as I move around the hall taking group portraits. I suppose I could just use both white reflective panels for bounced diffused light for general shooting and use the shining panel(s) for directing bounced lighting to some wall or ceiling.
[...]
and
I got a response from Presslite: "Unfortunately, we will not be able to offer new incentive discounts".
Tried it with my Sony 58 last night in a large banquet hall with high ceilings and medium colored walls and ceiling. I ended up using the white reflectors as diffusers with the flash head straight up, as the silver mirrors were not effective in such a large area. For a party environment where you have to walk around and catch spontaneous shots, I found that I didn't have time to adjust the reflectors so I just use the white panels to bounce the light.
Also in such a large room, you have to be pretty precise at the angles you set up the silver panels...much like playing pool except this is three dimensional but the light does spread out like a shotgun. When using the silver panel(s) to bounce the flash directly to the subject, I can see in my view screen when I have light cut off when I missed my panel setting!
If the task is to take portraits, such as bridals in the dressing room, or on a portrait shoot, then you can take time to study the room for effective bounce surfaces to make use the silver mirror panel(s).
At first the arms became loose from the band after a few adjustments... discovered that the arms were too close together at the panel attachment bar. By sliding the arms out so it was more parallel to each other and perpendicular to the band, it held up well.
Didn't like the fact when I wanted to set the panel and arms to the side and just use the flash in its native form, one of the panels sticks out distractively at right angles to the flash...had to detach it from the panel bar (attaches with rare earth magnets) and place into my pocket, thus a micro fiber slip case to protect the panels would be handy.
In the short time I used it last night, about 1/2 hour, I discovered that both white panels had dark scuff marks and didn't come off with a casual wipe from a cloth. Will try some isopropyl alcohol and mild detergent later.
On studying the scuff marks on one of the white panels I see there are two parallel marks in a arc fashion, so I am thinking it is rubbing against either the flash or the band. I just tried to replicate it and succeeded with the band, but only with a lot of pressure. Will learn to detach the panels when not in use. Again, have to keep the panels separate and in a slip case. I fashioned one out a spare micro fiber eye glass cleaning cloth. Will have to sew it into a fitted slip case.
This product is very well made but takes some time (for me at least) to study and learn its full capabilities. Will be playing with it as time and opportunities permit.
I wrote twice to Presslite and the Vertex Team and they were very responsive and friendly. Highly recommended company and product!
Great tool for the kit bag October 3, 2008
Cuy (Maryland USA)
1 out of 1 found this review helpful
I waited with some anticipation for this little gizmo. I was intrigued by the concept and potential for adapting to multiple lighting needs.
At first I was a little put off that it did not come preassembled. Assembly is not difficult and the directions are optional if you are the least bit mechanically inclined. You don't need tools. The elastomer band that grips your strobe works well. You give it an initial stretch to fit the strobe and slip it on. I do not anticipate it coming off by accident and it is easy to remove after use. Time will tell if the rotating, pivoting reflectors will be an issue, but right now everything stays where it's positioned. I'm using it with a Canon 580EX II. In my test shots, I was able to virtually eliminate all shadows and provide even lighting using the white reflectors. It gives the phrase "bounce lighting" a whole new meaning. Bounce off of two walls, not a problem. So far, I really like it, it beats the slip on diffusers hands down. The price is not bad considering what you would have to carry as an alternative to this little gem. Thumbs up on this.
-Cuy
|
|
|
. | |
|
