American lighting manufacturer Photoflex have introduced the RapiDome, a “complete and versatile all-in-one light shaping system that’s perfect for on-location photography”.
The RapiDome is a 25.5″ silver-lined octagonal light modifier with a deflector attachment that emulates the effect of a metal beauty dish. According to the manufacturer, the product provides “even lighting distribution from edge to edge”. Add a white diffusion panel to turn the RapiDome into a regular octagonal softbox, and/or attach a fabric grid to control spill light.
Opening and closing like an umbrella, the RapiDome comes with a coldshoe bracket for use with shoe-mount flashguns. The entire apparatus weighs 2.6 lbs.
This isn’t the first collapsible beauty dish on the market. There are a variety of options available for both studio heads and speedlights.
The RapiDome is available now on Amazon for $159.95, including the grid, speedlight adapter, deflector and diffusion panel and a case to carry it all in. You can also get everything bundled with a light stand for $184.95. For more information, visit the Photoflex RapiDome product page.