The more I learn about my speedlites the more I see their potential. One way to maximize their potential is with modifiers.
What is a modifier? A modifier is any device that changes the light from the source. You can use a gobo to block light, or as subtractive light, a reflector to add light to an area or a scrim to soften the light. A modifier can be a piece of cloth or even tinfoil… sounds technical doesn’t it. Well it doesn’t have to be, but where’s the fun in that? Speedlites are used for their portability, ease of use, and adaptability to fast changing scenes. It only makes sense that we want the same of our modifiers.
Soon as I saw these modifiers I wanted them… I didn’t know how to use them… and still don’t use them to their potential… but I know they looked cool.

Ok what am I talking about? MagMod, a modifier attached to your speedlite with rare earth magnets. I think their site talks of wizardry, so perhaps these are middle earth magnets, but I cannot confirm this. Snoots,grids, gels, diffusers, reflectors… all available.

I’ve talked about gels before, so if you want to read up on them, here’s the link Speedlite Gels.

What’s special about these gels is that they are polycarbonite ‘really strong’, they are placed in a MagGel holder that can hold up to three gels. Allowing you to colour correct for most lighting situations or create your own look. Shown below is the MagGel Kit and Wallet

Here’s what you need to attach them, the MagGrip, available in a kit or by itself. This rubber band stretches around your speedlight allowing all the MagMod modifiers to easily be installed and swapped.


Modifiers such as the MagBounce– which as you may have guessed allows you to bounce light over a larger surface, illuminating an area similar to a large softbox.

Another modifier to create softer light is the MagSphere. The MagSphere can be used as an on camera diffuser to create a larger softer light source. As an added bonus the MagSphere has a built in MagGel holder. Shown with blue Gel.

Next up the snoot. Instead of creating larger light areas the snoot directs light to a specific area depending on how far you extend or collapse it. Show fully collapsed in the box.

Last modifier I’ll mention is the MagGrid. Like the snoot the Grid directs or limits the area of light. By stacking grids you can significantly reduce the spill of light. Shown below two grids with a green MagGel

Those are the highlights, just to inform you of the product.

Looking for samples of what can be done with them?
This Video featuring Two Mann Studios from MagMod gives some ideas.

For better images, and more thorough product details visit MagMod

As a side-note: In Canada MagMod is now available on Amazon.ca. Direct from MagMod not a third party. Prices are about the same as buying from US site, just faster shipping and no cross border duty hassle.