My last subject was flowers, the type of subject ringlights seem made for. Many photographers use ringlights to photograph stamps and other small, non-reflective objects. Of course to do that you can get one of the many small ringlights that have very little power, so no real advantage here. But with this converter you can easily do full-length photos of models and even bigger groups, depending on the power of your light.

One good way to avoid redeye is to use black and white! In this case I used one of Kubota's "Warm and Blue" Actions. Model Alecia Johnson's makeup was done by Joya Beauty (www.joyabeauty.com) in Dover, New Hampshire.

So what's the final verdict? Like always, that depends on your usage. If you plan on using a ringlight extensively in your studio work, then this is probably not the way to go. However, if you just want to give yourself an option to create the ringlight "look" occasionally, and you already own Bowens lighting equipment, then this might be a good option. If you want to photograph small, non-reflective objects, this comes in real handy. Just create your setup, mount the light and converter on a light stand, determine your exposure, and shoot right through the center.

Technical Specifications
Diameter: 81/2"
Height: 133/4"
Width: 83/4"
Depth: 41/2"
Mount: "S"-type bayonet
Center Aperture: 33/4"
Angle: 55°
Weight: 3.2 lbs
Street Price: Approx. $450

Using the ringlight to photograph this custom piece of jewelry by Jim Livermore (www.jimlivermoredesigns.com) was possible because it is relatively flat. Pieces with many facets and planes are better served with different lighting styles.

For more information, contact Bowens USA, PO Box 310, West Hyannisport, MA 02672; (508) 862-9274; www.bowensusa.com.

Steve Bedell has been a portrait photographer for over 25 years. To subscribe to EPhoto, a free e-mail newsletter with tips for photographers, contact Bedell at sb@stevebedell.com. Also ask about his lighting DVDs.