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Archive 2012 · Softbox Question

  
 
GeoLaing
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p.1 #1 · p.1 #1 · Softbox Question


I have been using a Photoflex LiteDome Xtra-Small with a Speedlight on a pole for off-camera lighting, fill, etc. It works well but the light is not as "soft" as I would prefer. The only diffusion panel is the front panel.
At Photo Plus Expo yesterday I saw the SMDV Diffuser 50 by Fotodiox

http://]http://fotodioxpro.com/index.php/smdv-diffuser-50-smart-softbox-for-speedlite-flash-for-canon-nikon-pentax-olympus-and-nissin-flash.html

It is approximately 20" across, octagonal box and has an internal panel as well as the front panel. Is anyone familiar with this unit? It appears well made and while not outrageously expensive ($160), it is more than I would prefer to spend without hearing some comments or experience.


Thank you!



Oct 26, 2012 at 10:24 AM
maxwell1295
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p.1 #2 · p.1 #2 · Softbox Question


It looks nice but for wedding use I'd be concerned about the speed of setup. An umbrella or a softbox that opens like umbrella (Westcott Apollo) would be much easier to use.


Oct 26, 2012 at 10:31 AM
Scott Mosher
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p.1 #3 · p.1 #3 · Softbox Question


I've got one of these and I love it. Setup is very quick. My only nitpick is I have to keep tighening some of the screws on the bracket.

http://www.amazon.com/CowboyStudio-Photo-Speedlite-Softbox-L-Bracket/dp/B003C0ZG2W/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1351265731&sr=8-1&keywords=cowboystudio+softbox



Oct 26, 2012 at 10:38 AM
Scott Clark
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p.1 #4 · p.1 #4 · Softbox Question


You'll have to get in fairly close to get soft light from a 20" box, so that might be something to consider...
A shoot through umbrella (like a 48") is really fast, cheap, and folds up very small. It'll give essentially the same light as a softbox, with maybe a little less efficiency. If you're using it outdoors, you don't have to worry about back spill. If you're shooting tight, you'll probably like the catch lights from a SB better though.
For a softbox, I really like my Lastolite EZ box...it's really nice, but not cheap. I've heard good things about the Cowboy Studio version as well..



Oct 26, 2012 at 10:57 AM
DigMeTX
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p.1 #5 · p.1 #5 · Softbox Question


Scott Mosher wrote:
I've got one of these and I love it. Setup is very quick. My only nitpick is I have to keep tighening some of the screws on the bracket.

http://www.amazon.com/CowboyStudio-Photo-Speedlite-Softbox-L-Bracket/dp/B003C0ZG2W/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1351265731&sr=8-1&keywords=cowboystudio+softbox


The gridded version is only $13 more.

http://www.amazon.com/CowboyStudio-24speedlite-grill-softbox-Portable-Off-camera-Speedlites/dp/B004K33S66/ref=sr_1_4?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1351269430&sr=1-4&keywords=cowboystudio+24+softbox

brad



Oct 26, 2012 at 11:37 AM
Kittyk
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p.1 #6 · p.1 #6 · Softbox Question


more far you are, harder the light will be. you have to be really close with such small softboxes.


Oct 26, 2012 at 12:13 PM
Jon-Mark
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p.1 #7 · p.1 #7 · Softbox Question


I would say get a reflective umbrella with diffusion fabric, essentially like a smaller Paul Buff PLM. Super portable, super fast setup, and softer light with a more even spread than a 20" softbox.


Oct 26, 2012 at 12:36 PM
cbres00
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p.1 #8 · p.1 #8 · Softbox Question


Before you spend any money, it might be worthwhile to view Jay P. Moran's video on octodomes. Valuable information:




Oct 26, 2012 at 02:31 PM
GraemePitman
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p.1 #9 · p.1 #9 · Softbox Question


http://static.borrowlenses.com/images/store/clear.jpg


Oct 26, 2012 at 02:40 PM
Ian Boys
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p.1 #10 · p.1 #10 · Softbox Question


hahahaha


Oct 29, 2012 at 07:04 AM
joelconner
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p.1 #11 · p.1 #11 · Softbox Question


DigMeTX wrote:
The gridded version is only $13 more.

http://www.amazon.com/CowboyStudio-24speedlite-grill-softbox-Portable-Off-camera-Speedlites/dp/B004K33S66/ref=sr_1_4?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1351269430&sr=1-4&keywords=cowboystudio+24+softbox

brad



We use the gridded one...has been great for us. Kitty is right, you have to have be close to keep the light soft, but typically, you are going to have to be fairly close when using just a speedlight anyway (especially outdoors in daytime)



Oct 29, 2012 at 08:41 AM





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