A while ago I tested the Manfrotto HaloCompact. It is a relatively new series of reflex / diffusers from Manfrotto which is really interesting as it differs from the traditional pop-up reflex / diffuser screens.
So what's the big news? For me, there are three crucial differences. The stability, the form factor and the mounting possibilities. The stiffness keeps it in shape and does not sag / bend. The form factor is incredibly flexible. Disassembled, it does not get bigger than a small umbrella. With the built-in thread in the handle, you can easily mount the screen on a stand or arm.
I often photograph food in a restaurant environment, so I thought I would test how HaloCompact would work as the only light shaper in such a situation. I brought two HaloCompact together with Elinchrom ELB 500 TTL and ELB 400.
Became a relatively simple setup that fit in a corner of the restaurant. Here I used HaloCompact diffuser as headlight on the left side. Set the other HaloCompact, with reflective white side, on the opposite side to bounce back light and lighten the shadows a bit. To get some separation from the somewhat dull background, I used ELB 400 with reflector and grid obliquely from behind.
Here you can find some of the pictures.
Här kan ni se några av bilderna.
I think the result became really good for a quick test like this. The size 82cm, which is the diameter of the HaloCompact I tested, is slightly smaller than what I usually use as a headlight, but if you want a very light and small setup, I think HaloCompact works very well!
Easy to carry and easy to mount on an arm or stand. Can easily see scenarios where you may want to balance existing light with flash, and then a small smooth setup with HaloCompact can work really well. As a reflex / diffuser, I think it is spotless. Sure it is not quite as fast to get up as a pop-up screen but so much better to work with!
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