Quote Originally Posted by mjs1973
I have heard really good things about the Datacolor SpyderCube for a custom white balancing tool but I have never used one. It's not cheap and it looks like it would take up some room in a bag too.

What I use to set a custom WB is my RAW converter. It's a very simple adjustment that doesn't hurt your image quality.

If you are set on having something to set your WB in the field there are a couple of DIY tricks you can use. Instead of buying an expo disc buy a can of Pringles and use the lid as your expo disc. I have read mixed reviews on this but it might be worth a try. I have also heard of people using a plain white coffee filter for a WB tool. Use it the same way you would and ExpoDisc.
Mmm...pringles.. I was just at the grocery store and looked at them. I think they've changed their lids. They're totally clear now, so I don't think it'll work. The coffee filter might be worth a try though.

The SpyderCube looks interesting, but I am leaning more towards an in-camera solution. I always shoot RAW, so I can tweak it a little if necessary, but I really want to have an accurate starting point. Otherwise, I can get thrown off and end up with something way too warm or way too cold.

I like the idea of these devices that serve double-duty as a lens cap. Gotta have a lens cap anyway, so that would make it really convenient. I guess I'm just trying to decide between the BaLens and the much cheaper Vivicap. I sure would like to spend around $20, instead of three times that much.

Paul