what softbox should i buy

[mission1968]

Hi all i been using the lencarta 300 2x flash head kit with 2 shoot through umbrellas. I want to add a softbox to my setup but i dont know what size to get or shape ie a square, Rectangular or Octagon also do i have to buy a lancarta softbox or is there any other makes that would fit.

thanks for any help

 

[Lencarta]

Last question first, because it's the easy one...

Any softbox made to fit Lencarta or Bowens should fit, the thing to look for in the description is 'S-fit'

Which size and shape to get is a much more difficult question. Basically the shape controls the shape of the catchlight in the eyes, many people prefer square or rectangular because a catchlight of that shape looks a bit like a window, so looks natural - and square/rectangular softboxes can be 'feathered' to light using just the edge if required - but it's all a matter of taste.

Size depends on a couple of things - what you want to light and how soft you want the lighting to be. If you want soft light, or if you want to light groups, get the biggest softbox you can.

 

[mission1968]

thanks gary i think i will get the biggest i can afford, will 300 flashlights be ok witha large softbox or does it not matter

 

[Lencarta]

thanks gary i think i will get the biggest i can afford, will 300 flashlights be ok witha large softbox or does it not matter

In theory it matters a bit, but in practice it doesn't

 

[Andrew Boyd]

I find the most useful size is something in the 3ft x 4ft size. This works for just about all tabletop and you can shoot most groups with it too, if you can back it up a bit. It also packs right up in your light stand soft bag.

Andrew
TheDiscerningPhotographer