p.4 #1 · Westcott Apollo type of Umbrella Softbox?
Just to ask a question for clarification.
I want to use the Nikon CLS system with an Westcott Apollo softbox with my flash up inside it.
Doesn't it require line-of-sight to the sensor on the side of the flash for it to work?
Just want to be sure on this before ordering a couple of them...Thanks!!
p.4 #2 · Westcott Apollo type of Umbrella Softbox?
Yes it would otherwise you will need to use an SC-28 or 29 cord or manual and a remote trigger. However, it really won't work because the red infrared window on the flash has to see the pre-flashes and any modifier that large will block the window. You are better off adjusting the flash in manual mode.
I had a meetup event a few months ago. I was the only Canon shooter in the bunch, and everyone else had Nikon gear with Nikon speedlights. They were putting their SB-800's and SB-900's in my 28" softbox, and were using CLS and getting proper exposures. They did this for about 8 or 9 hours from noon till sunset, and I didn't hear anyone complaining about the CLS system not working.
In the pictures above, the guy on the left image is putting his Nikon Speedlight in the Apollo. Later, the two guys on the right image put one of their Nikon speedlights in the Apollo. They were using CLS. I know this because I got laughed at for using all manual settings (?).
As far as I saw, it worked. So much so, two of the guys shooting went out afterwards and purchased the Apollo specifically for using it with CLS and their Nikon gear.
p.4 #9 · Westcott Apollo type of Umbrella Softbox?
Sid Ceaser wrote:
In the pictures above, the guy on the left image is putting his Nikon Speedlight in the Apollo. Later, the two guys on the right image put one of their Nikon speedlights in the Apollo. They were using CLS. I know this because I got laughed at for using all manual settings (?).
I've got one of these..... It's "ok" The only thing I don't like is I use it with a 285 and the head doesn't fit inside the softbox but...... Mine was $45 last spring. I've also got the wescott apollo speedlight setup. I like it a little better.... both are ok.
p.4 #15 · Westcott Apollo type of Umbrella Softbox?
Size is what gives softness, so don't be confused by the term "softbox"! If you want soft, shoot through a 60" umbrella. If you're worried about foreground spill, cover the bottom half of the umbrella with the black umbrella backing, or put a flag on the bottom of your flash. If you want fast, easy (and good), shoot through a collapsible translucent light disc hand-held by an assistant. For a "less flashed look" with soft (detailed) shadows, use the available light as a strong fill.
