Softboxes for flashguns

mastertrinity

mastertrinity

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Luke
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Hey all following on from a recent thread I'm after a portable softbox for my Jessops 360AFDS flashgun.

I have seen two Velcro ones that look the part but are they any good and which is better?

Firstly there are the Lastolite Micro Apollo's. The biggest advantage is they seem cheaper and they can have larger sizes (max is 41cm x 25cm).

http://www.jacobsdigital.co.uk/p-47590-jacobs-digital-lastolite-2205-micro-apollo-xl-41cmx25cm.aspx

Secondly is the Lastolite Ezybox Speed lite. This is different from the typical Ezybox where instead of it being big and bulky and requiring a bracket, this one is a small 22cm x 22cm softbox that Velcro's on.

http://www.jacobsdigital.co.uk/p-49041-jacobs-digital-lastolite-2420-ezybox-speed-lite-softbox.aspx


So is one better than the other? both seem decent but would love to hear from other experiences.
 
I have a 24" x 24" ezybox for off camera flash. Pretty good but that new one looks good!
 
mastertrinity said:
yeah I can also get a 20" x 20" Ezybox for £50 if that would be better?

I just don't want to carry around conventional softboxes that are a nightmare to set up.
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The flash needs to be on a stand for these but the softbox is set up and taken down in seconds.
 
For £40 that wee Ezybox looks good, but it's not going to be use for anything much more than a headshot.
 
yes I see your point Graham, The further the softbox the more spotlighted the light becomes and so causing more hassle than it's worth. so what would you recommend then, is it best for the Ezybox?

Forgot to mention I'm shooting basic portraiture (headshots and 3/4 lengths), children plus I'm starting to do model work aswell so the portability would be great.

Just wondering Graham, how much is a similar softbox and lightstand if I bought from you?
 
Why a softbox particularly? Brolly no good?
 
A regular size Ezybox will do headshots or 3/4 (at a push), to be honest if it's your first light modifier I'd suggest a convertible umbrella and perhaps invest in a softbox once you progress a bit further.
 
I never really thought about a brolly, I just assumed a softbox was an easier modifier to start off with. So if a brolly then which ones do what because there seems to be hundreds of options, white, black, gold, silver, translucent?

Also what's a typical price of them?
 
mastertrinity said:
I never really thought about a brolly, I just assumed a softbox was an easier modifier to start off with. So if a brolly then which ones do what because there seems to be hundreds of options, white, black, gold, silver, translucent?

Also what's a typical price of them?
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A convertible one is the best bet, essentially a shoot-through with a cover that converts it into a reflective one, giving you the best of both worlds. £12.50 delivered for a 33" one
 
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Flash In The Pan said:
A convertible one is the best bet, essentially a shoot-through with a cover that converts it into a reflective one, giving you the best of both worlds. £12.50 delivered for a 33" one
Click to expand...

Now that sounds a great deal, just one last question what type of reflective? silver I'm guessing?

you'll be hearing from me soon Mr. FITP ;)
 
I think I might have put it in the wrong section (equipment) but I found a tutorial for a brilliant diffuser. My other thread is HERE

Maybe a mod could move it into here please
 
I am guessing that both those linked to in the first post would cover the ETTL window, meaning you would need to work out the amount of flash needed, thus making it less easy in use as I imagine distance from flash to subject would be likely to change a fair bit in normal use ?
 
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I've been looking for a softbox for myself, my son is due to be born in the next few weeks & I want to take as many pictures as I can without blinding the little fella!
I also want to be able to take pictures of various family members holding him etc.
Like Luke I also have a single Jessops 360AFD flashgun, space is a bit of an issue as I live in a small flat.

I've found these Interfit INT334 or would I need the STR148 if I'm using TTL? Or would it not matter if I'm using wireless triggers?
 
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You may still need the STR148. It allows the flash to turn towards camera position so the IR receiver can "see" the signal.

If you prefer to use manual a radio transmitter/receiver is all you need.

Using the transmitter on the 7D I think is infra red. IR is a little hit and miss especially if the softbox is behind camera position or is in bright sunlight. Radio doesn't have those issues but you will then need to work in Manual (which is a lot easier than you may think). A flash meter can allow you to work quite quickly.
 
Ah I see now, thank you.

Is it a specialty to have a bracket that moves like that or do most softboxes come with them? Sorry for the basic questions!!
 
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