Stand-mounted softboxes come in a multi-
tude of shapes and sizes ranging from
squares to rectangles to ovals to octagons.
Most photographers use standard square or
rectangular softboxes. However, some pho-
tographers prefer to use oval or octagonal
ones for the way that they mimic umbrellas
and give a more pleasing round shape to
the catchlights in the eyes. This is mostly a
matter or personal preference. I, for one,
usually use a medium sized rectangular
softbox.
As with umbrellas, the size of the softbox
you need to use is dependent on the sub-
ject you are photographing. Softboxes can
be taken apart and folded up pretty conve-
niently— most of them come with storage
bag that can be used to transport them.
Softbox alternatives
If you are working on a budget, or just aren’t
sure you are ready to invest in a softbox, a
more economical approach is to use a diffu-
sion panel. A diffusion panel is basically a
frame made out of PVC pipe with a reflec-
tive nylon stretched over it. It functions
much in the same way as a soft box, but you
have more control over the quality of the
light. Because the PVC frame can be disas-
sembled easily and packed away into a
small bag for storage or for transport to and
from location, it makes it great for the
portable studio.
Diffusion panels are usually about six feet
tall and have a base which allows it stand
up without the need of a light stand. The dif-
fusion panel is placed in front of the subject.
Your Speedlight is then mounted on a light
stand using the AS-19 adaptor that is sup-
plied with it. You can move the Speedlight
closer to the diffusion panel for more direc-
tional light or further away for a softer and
more even light. For a full length portrait,
you should place two Speedlights behind
the panel, one near the top and one closer
to the bottom.
A diffusion panel can also be used as a
reflector when used in conjunction with
another light source. Diffusion panels can
be purchased at most major camera stores
at a fraction of the price of a good softbox.
If you’re feeling crafty, a diffu-
sion panel can be made from
items easily found in your local
hardware and fabric store.
Numerous sites are on the
Internet that offer advice on
how to construct one.
Tip

Chapter 5 ✦Setting Up a Wireless Studio 91

5.3 Stand-mounted softbox
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