Lee #216 'White Diffusion'—light, fine-grain diffusion filter with 82% transmission. Subtly scatters light, maintains shadow definition, suits natural portrait lighting without 'soft-focus' effect.
Technical Specifications
Lee #216 "White Diffusion" is a lightweight diffusion material made of frosted white polyester with 82% light transmission (0.3 stop loss). The material diffuses light at a narrow angle of approximately 15-25°, which softens hard shadow edges while maintaining the basic shadow shape. The material thickness is 0.13mm with a heat resistance up to 120°C. Standard sizes range from 25x30cm sheets to 1.22m x 7.62m rolls for large-area applications.
How Light Diffusion Works
Diffusion materials scatter light through micro-structures in the film, which deflect light rays in various directions. In the case of 216, these structures are fine and evenly distributed, resulting in homogeneous diffusion without hotspots. Unlike coarser diffusers (such as 250 or 251), a larger portion of light remains directed with 216 – hence the preservation of shadow definition. The "wrap-around" property (light flowing around contours) is minimal with 216.
Comparison of the Lee Diffusion Series
| Filter | Name | Transmission | Diffusion Angle | Characteristic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 216 | White Diffusion | 82% | 15-25° | Subtle, preserves shadows |
| 250 | Half White Diffusion | 55% | 35-45° | Medium, softer edges |
| 251 | Quarter White Diffusion | 40% | 60-80° | Strong, wrap-around effect |
| 129 | Heavy Frost | 30% | 90°+ | Very strong, almost shadowless |
Applications
Lee 216 is particularly suitable for: Fresnel lights in portraiture (Key Light), fill light while maintaining directional characteristics (Fill Light), subtle correction of LED panels with overly harsh light quality, and as a "first stage" of diffusion when approaching the desired look. For beauty and fashion shoots, 216 is often combined with reflectors – the main light remains defined, while fill lights provide soft shadows.
Combinations
216 is often layered or combined: Two layers of 216 yield approximately the effect of 250 (Half White). 216 + 1/8 CTO results in "Warm Soft" for skin tones. 216 + 1/4 CTB creates "Cool Soft" for modern/sterile looks. On softboxes, 216 can serve as an additional diffusion layer to make the already soft output even more homogeneous. For window simulation: 216 on the inside of the frame, ND on the outside for exposure control.
Practical Tips
216 is more susceptible to creases and scratches than thicker diffusers – careful transport and flat storage are recommended. For Fresnel lights over 2kW, the Lee HT series (High Temperature) or a distance of at least 30cm between the filter and the lens is advisable. For precise control: Stretch 216 in grip frames (4x4, 6x6, 12x12) instead of mounting directly on the light – allows for quick changes between diffusion strengths.