In article <4p6hu7$lm@zeus.athens.net>, devereux@athens.net says...

>Does anyone have any opinions on the most effective and convenient method(s)
>for removing or significantly reducing shadows created when photographing
>impromptu portraits using on-camera direct flash while the camera is
>vertically oriented.
>I use a Canon EOS Elan IIe and a 430EZ flash which has bounce & swivel
>capabilities. I've tried using the Off-Camera Shoe Cord 2 but this method is
>rather awkward because one has to hold and direct the flash with one hand and
>hold and shoot the camera with the other. Using this method, it is difficult
>to correctly aim the flash. It's also impossible to zoom or manual focus
>(unless you have a third hand!).

Since your flash "tilts and whirls", aim it straight up and pop a large white Styrofoam cup over the end - works great for getting the light above
the lens with vertical framing, and the price is right!

>My usual method of choice is to attach a 5x7" white card to my bounced/tilted
>flash but unless the ceiling is low and white, results are "iffy" at best.
>I've considered purchasing a Stroboframe Quickflip flash bracket. Anyone >have experience with the Stroboframe or similar products?

Since the light source is far above the lens axis, large shadows appear under
everything (I call it the "wrought-iron chin brace effect"). The Styrofoam cup
is easier to handle (and pack), and can be combined with ambient light for pleasant lighting. It is also useful when extra wide flash coverage is needed
(20mm lenses and fisheyes).
Hope This Helps