Why Softboxes?

Softboxes are an amazing tool in the photographer or videographer’s arsenal and is frankly one of my favorite tools to use period. A soft box is a lighting tool that can be used to get a nice soft, diffused lighting feel for any situation on demand. Softboxes were designed to soften the high-contrast light from light sources like lamps, camera flashes, and even the sun to create a soft, natural looking light both on people or random objects. One good thing about softboxes is that you don’t have to spend a fortune acquiring all the ones you will need. They are rather in expensive and you even can make some on your own using cheap household products.

One thing I need to mention and is one important reason why I love softboxes is the wrap around effect you get from them. Have you ever tried to light something for film or photo and you keep getting hard shadows near the edges or base of the object. Having a softbox close to your object could be the answer to your problems. The light passing through the diffusion face of the soft box is large enough to wrap around your object and soften the shadows to maintain the smooth look you need.

If you are already on your way to producing your own film or photography work then you probably already have a couple of these light rigs in your studio. If you don’t I would highly recommend going out and picking some up or at least making some of your own. I wont give my secrets on how to create an amazing soft box from home in this blog but if you need some tips feel free to comment below and I’ll be happy to help.

By – Mitch Myers