A: There are two reasons for the name of the product: definitional and representational. Definitionally, vertex refers to the point where two rays of light begin. In terms of visual representation, when the device is adjusted one way, it takes the form of a letter V, while adjusted another way, it takes the form of the letter X.
A: Only the VerteX™ makes it possible to (1) easily control the diffusion of light while on the move, using only one hand, (2) manipulate the flow and quality of light in ways not possible with other existing devices and (3) achieve longer battery life, faster recycle times, higher f-stop and lower ISO options .
A: Everyone can benefit from the VerteX™. It is easy to use and much like your cell phone or computer, the VerteX™ can be invaluable even without command of all advanced features. With experience, various creative possibilities will reveal themselves.
A: You may be surprised how much light can return from a distant bounce, depending on the power of your flash unit. The secret to an effective bounce is to project strong specular (mirrored) light rather than weak diffused light. The VerteX™ makes it possible to project powerful specular light, for the ultimate bounce.
A: No, and here's why. When you bounce light off of anything, you want the maximum amount of light hitting that surface, in order that there be enough light bouncing back to the subject. If you apply a diffuser, the light output will be reduced by 2 stops or more! The flash will have to work extra hard and still may not be able to produce enough light from the bounce back, due to the power hungry diffuser. So then why use the PRESSlite VerteX™ for bouncing? Simple. You don't use it as a diffuser but rather as a bouncing device, by virtue of its mirrors. If you check out our YouTube videos ( and ) you will see that just one mirror is all you need to place the bounced light at two different spots simultaneously, like the ceiling and a wall or two spots far apart on the ceiling , creating more flattering, wraparound lighting.
A: Yes, we emphasize bouncing light off nearby objects, as this is the only way to produce the largest, softest light source from a small external camera-mounted flash. The mirror(s) help to redirect light at its maximum intensity for the most efficient bounce.
When there aren't any nearby objects to bounce, then the white diffusion panel(s) may be used to soften the light somewhat. Without ceiling, walls or nearby objects to bounce the light, however, it's simply impossible to avoid harsh shadows with a camera-mounted flash. Even increasing the size of the white diffuser panel to three or four times its size will not eliminate the harshness of the light.
Outdoor daytime conditions often call for the full power of direct flash in order to offset the effects of the sun. No diffuser should be used in this situation. So while the VerteX™ may not help here, it also does not interfere, as it can be easily moved completely out of the way without having to remove it from the flash head.
A: Yes. The VerteX™ leaves ample room for adding gel strips.
A: The mirrored insert has incredible specular reflective properties, because of the aluminized coating on both sides. The light loss through reflection off this surface is only 1/3 of a stop, compared to the average light loss of 2 stops or more with typical translucent diffusers.
A: Yes. The VerteX™ inserts are easily replaceable. You may replace them, creatively, with your own materials, or with our selection of inserts.
A: Use a piece of cloth diaper or polishing rag and Lemon Pledge. Do not use paper towel or terry cloth.
A: Many diffusers currently on the market emit light in all directions, leaving you no choice as to where the light hits. The VerteX™ offers the ability to steer and project light selectively, in the form of Target Bouncing™. Even more important is the ability to "steer away" from heavily colorcast areas or objects .
A: The VerteX™ works wonderfully with brackets. To reduce weight and bulk, however, why not go bracketless? One important point to keep in mind when using brackets is that the auto-focus assist light may no longer function effectively if not well-aligned with the lens axis.
A: No. The laws of physics cannot be defied. But they can be creatively exploited! The VerteX™ offers additional freedom and options, by successfully leveraging and exploiting the physics of light.
A: Actually, these are not different models but rather different configurations that are all possible with the same VerteX, which comes with two panels, two mirrored inserts, two white inserts and the superstructure that mounts over your flash head. Prices quoted refer to just the one existing model.
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