Remember those square and soft devices that emitted radiant lights whenever the cameraman took a picture? Yes, that is called a softbox. The importance of having these devices during a photoshoot is unparalleled. So, if you want to up your photography skills, then you need to learn how to use a softbox.
However, before we get there, you must know what a softbox is and how it works. Plus, we have provided all the necessary details regarding the topic. Thus, we are keeping you up to date on the matter and shall keep you prepared for all kinds of work. Shall we start?
What Is a Softbox?
Well, a softbox is a form of a photographic lighting device. These devices provide you with an even and diffused light by dispersing the light through a scattering material. Another method that softbox use to produce that peaceful light is by reflecting the light from another surface to diffuse it.
Softboxes have a lightbulb that is enclosed within reflectors in the sides and the back. This intensifies and focuses the light in one direction. As the light passes through the scattering material, it gets diffused.
Types of Softbox
Now that we know what a softbox is, we need to know about the types of softboxes. So, without further ado, here are the 4 types of softboxes in the market:
Squarebox
These are simple square or rectangular softboxes and are one of the most common forms of softboxes. You can find them at the most affordable price ranging, so it is a great option if you are trying to learn how to use softboxes.
Octabox
If you are looking for a type of softbox for taking pictures of people, then the octabox is the one for you! Due to its unique construction, these boxes are a great device to provide that pleasant light for you to click a picture of your model.
Octagon Honeycomb Grid
When you want even better lighting for your pictures, this device is the one that you should be looking for. It generally uses strobe lights, which is a brighter and more radiant source of light. And hence, it offers exceptional lighting options for your photographs.
Stripbox
Now, due to its strip-like structure, the device is an exceptional choice when you are taking pictures of the scenery. The emission of light is much more concentrated when compared to octabox or squarebox.
How to Use a Softbox?
Using a softbox (the better one) is a very easy deal. So, if you are a novice who is trying to learn how to work with softboxes or a pro who needs to jog your memory on how to work with softboxes, this section is for you! Using a softbox requires a couple of steps.
Step 1
Pick the right kind of softbox. You see, there are four types of softboxes, and though their functionalities might be the same, they are used for different types of tasks. And you need to be sure about the kind of softbox you would need for the task in hand.
A little word of advice, if you are planning to click pictures of human models, go for octabox, and if you are going for clicking pictures of the scenery, then go for the stripbox. Also, you need to be sure of the size of the softbox. The size of the softbox determines the area of focus.
For instance, if you are going for a headshot, then go for a softbox that is larger than the model’s head like Inseesi Round Softbox. Having a bigger-sized softbox for a smaller-sized model ensures that the emitted light is focused on the spot that you are planning to take a picture of. Therefore, we suggest that you go for a softbox that is quite big.
Step 2
Now, all you need to do is direct the softbox at your subject. However, the crucial factors for a softbox are the directions, distance, and angle that the model is at. Hence, experiment with the angle. Eventually, you will find the angle and position that provides you the best pictures of your subject.
This is for novice-level photographers: first place the softbox at 45-degrees from your model. Elevate your softbox up from the middle so that the device is just above the model’s eyes, and it is pointing downwards. Now take a picture! If you like it, fantastic! And if you don’t see what is wrong, then adjust accordingly.
Final Words
Using softboxes is one of the simplest tasks in photography. It is one thing that photographers love using due to its simplicity. So, just be confident about your eyes and photography skills. And you will see how being able to use softboxes is going to change your whole picture-taking experience.
We hope our article has helped you!
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