Which Softbox Should I Buy?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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As a rule of thumb, the size of a

softbox should be approximately the same size as your subject

; meaning a head shot or half shot could require softboxes in the range of about 18 to 24′′, whereas full-body shots could require multiple softboxes in the 48′′ or larger range.

Which shape softbox is best?


Rectangular

: The most versatile softbox shape. It has wide application in product photography and portrait photography. These softboxes were designed to mimic window light, specifically.

Are bigger softboxes better?

The bigger the light source (relative to the subject)

the softer the light produced

. In other words bigger softboxes give softer light and as long as your softbox is close to your subject that holds true. … With the small and medium sized softboxes you’ll see a sharper, harder edge to the shadow then the big softbox.

What softbox should I buy for video?

  1. Fovitec StudioPRO Softbox Lighting Kit. BUY NOW ON AMAZON. …
  2. LimoStudio Photography Softbox Light Lighting Kit. BUY NOW ON AMAZON. …
  3. ESDDI Softbox Photography Lighting Kit. …
  4. Neewer 700W Softbox Lighting Kit. …
  5. Excelvan Photography Video Studio Lighting Kit 1250W Softbox.

Is 120cm softbox too big?

Your 120cm (48′′) softbox should

be large enough for good soft light

, especially for waist up shots of a seated mother with child.

Do you need a softbox?

The answer is

adaptability

. There’s nothing like a softbox when it comes to providing soft light for any style of shooting. Fashion, food, product, portraiture, you name it. Even when they aren’t used as the key light source, softboxes play an important role for fill, separation and edge lighting.

Does softbox shape matter?

A light bank or soft box for flash emulate the soft, directional lighting produced by window light. A

soft box is usually rectangular, but it can be any shape

; in fact, the shape of your light bank/soft box (same thing, really) can make a big difference in shaping the quality of your portrait photography lighting.

What is a good size softbox?

As a rule of thumb, the size of a softbox should be

approximately the same size as your subject

; meaning a head shot or half shot could require softboxes in the range of about 18 to 24′′, whereas full-body shots could require multiple softboxes in the 48′′ or larger range.

What does a bigger softbox do?

In general, the smaller the light source, the more concentrated and harsher the light will be, and the larger the light source the softer the light is. Larger softboxes work

well for portraiture photography or large areas

as they produce softer lighting with more gradual transitions between light and shadow.

Are Godox softboxes good?

I like the Godox Octas – they are

well made

, pop-up quickly, have internal and external diffusers, and produce great light. Pricing is excellent as well. I like the Godox Photo Studio Octagon Umbrella Softbox 80cm/31.5in with Bowens Mount.

Is softbox lighting good for video?

Video Lighting: Softbox Light Tips and 2 Common Problems

Softbox lights are

a great low-cost video lighting option for DIY studios

, but there are a few things you need to know to prevent issues & get the best results.

Which softbox for food photography?


Octagon Softbox 48′′

– The bigger the softbox, the better. This attaches on to your light in order to soften and diffuse. The reason why I love this 48′′ softbox is because it’s basically the size of a large window. This will allow you to evenly glow your entire food set up, while also making it appear natural.

What does a parabolic softbox do?

It’s a versatile light that can

be used for portraiture and even beauty work

. Its size also means it’s very versatile and can be used for close up portraits as well as three-quarter images, as you can see in the examples below (you can find out how I shot these images in our portrait photography course).

Emily Lee
Author
Emily Lee
Emily Lee is a freelance writer and artist based in New York City. She’s an accomplished writer with a deep passion for the arts, and brings a unique perspective to the world of entertainment. Emily has written about art, entertainment, and pop culture.