portable flash options

I saw some event photo's of Sapna's yesterday. The use of flash was very effective. She said she uses a Metz flash and often has someone else hold it for her. I think this would be such a great option. If anyone knows much about them, or where and how to get them cheap, let me know. Thanks.

how camera cheats work

Super-cheap diy for the pov & nerdy at instructables.com

Cigarette pack flash diffuser
DIY Photography Gels
Remote Shutter Triggers for Canon dSLR's

everything is illuminated

Now that I've narrowed the subject matter down to people engaging in screen-based (mostly narrative-driven) activities, I have to deal with the technical realities of it. Many of these devices (mp3 players, cameras, portable gaming consoles & mobile phones) illuminate the face of the viewer. But not well enough for photography in the lighting conditions I want (dark, Crewsonesque). So I'm going to need to increase the radiant glow. This is what I will need:

- unwanted device bodies
- used disposable camera's (for the flash)
- someone on instructables, photojojo, makezine, or maybe even flickr groups to have already worked it out for me.
- some kind of diffusing system, probably gels too.

Or maybe a snoot or two will do the trick? I really want light to play a big part in this. I want it to be beautiful... not just a means to an end.

Time to experiment. And research... I'm sure this has been done countless times before.