Choose a flash modifier by the light you want: a tight beam, a controlled spread, soft wrap-around light or a portable softbox. Most modifiers either narrow light to control where it lands or enlarge the source to soften it.
Tight beams: snoot and tele-lens modifiers
If you want to light one person or detail, a snoot narrows the beam. The MagSnoot 2 collapses into four stages for four beam patterns and suits rim and hair lights. The MagBeam uses a tele lens for a concentrated, longer-reaching beam and can project patterns with MagMask gobos.
Controlled spread: grids
A grid keeps flash from spilling onto the background. Our MagGrid 2 review covers a 40-degree grid that can be stacked to tighten the pattern.
Softer light: diffusers, bounce and softboxes
A larger source gives softer light, as our video lighting basics guide explains. The MagSphere 2 and MagBounce 2 spread flash on camera, while the MagBox Pro 24 Octa is a 24-inch softbox with a zip-on diffuser, a magnetic grid and a gel slot for off-camera use.
Plan the attachments
MagMod modifiers attach through the MagGrip 2, and larger softboxes pair with a bracket on a stand. The MagShoe 2 is a one-hand cold shoe bracket built to carry larger MagBox Pro softboxes. A light stand from our tripod buying guide completes the kit.
Frequently asked questions
What does a snoot do?
A snoot narrows a flash into a tight beam so you can light one subject or detail, such as a hair light, without lighting the whole scene.
What is the difference between a grid and a snoot?
A grid narrows the spread while keeping a relatively even pattern, and a snoot concentrates light into a tighter, more directed beam. Both control spill rather than soften light.
How do I get softer flash light?
Use a larger source. A diffuser, a bounce modifier or a softbox spreads the light and softens shadows.
Do I need a grip to attach modifiers?
MagMod modifiers attach through the MagGrip 2, which is sold separately, so budget for it when you build a kit.