You are correct thank you!

@@Dankosaurous yeah I’m not going to fully disagree. I can’t say that the Westcott is significantly better than the cheaper alternative. I have a couple of Westcott soft boxes that were over $300 with mounts. But I use 2 flashpoint soft boxes that were $50 each for 90% of my shoots. They work, they’re cheaper, they’re lighter, but more importantly they’re direct mount with the AD300pro. I love the slim size of the mounting bracket vs the standard bowens or similar ones. So this is not at all me telling you it’s better than the competition for you or anyone. This is me telling you I’ve used Westcott stuff in the past and it’s solid dependable equipment that’s held up, and for me the breakdown and setup speed on this was great. But I have not tried others! If yours works for you and gives you a comparable quality of light then def use it! Just use what you want/can to make cool shots, that’s what I care about! PS, I’ve had 2 of my Westcott soft boxes for almost 9 years and with the, being taken to like 100+ weddings (before switching to the flashpoints 4 years ago) and tons of commercial shoots even up to today for specific uses. They have held up incredibly well, so I can’t say that your reflector won’t but for me that’s a testament to Westcott making reliable solid products!

@@cronufc that’s fantastic to hear! I’ve considered doing a modern remake (since that’s all Hollywood does and it seems to work). And seeing how magmod has changed their products since then. I have a big better setup now too. Alas I’m glad it’s still helping! I still have some Westcott products, but the real goal of this is finding what works for you and looking at a product critically to see if it deserves to be in your kit! Good luck building yours out!

no problem!

Yep check pinned comment.

Can you please rephrase this? It does't really make sense.

@@colbewells1487 Yes, you show video for examples with other lighting, then stills for examples with the test lighting. In other words, you're using different mediums for before & after comparison.

@@Gnosis2078 ahh I see what you’re saying now. So if you notice I say “lit using eye lighter 3” in the bottom of the video as I’m explaining what I’m about to do. So you have a long example of the eye lighter then two shorter examples of the other two. So all three are shown. Hope this clears that up for you to be able to see all 3 video examples. The stills is just completely separate to give an example of my setup with the reflector in photos.

@@colbewells1487 Thanks that helps.

Yeah, I guess that's possible. I'm not sure why the person I spoke with was upset that the product was bad. It happens you know some people won't like the product you make. No need to get butt hurt and say I was rude for saying it, and then asking for a refund. Anywho I haven't been a fan of magmod since then.

You're totally correct on how lighting works. However as stated in the video the values are on their website if you need that precise of information. Additionally there are many people who are doing significantly more technical reviews if you want to find that information with light meter readings. I really am just showcasing the reflector fall off and light output when directly compared to one another, not from an overall standpoint. So therefore for my example the distance and actual power output really doesn't matter here.

Honestly, I'd never use it.

​@colbewells1487 Interesting. Now I'm curious, what kind of studio work do you do?

@@aarontharris I rarely do studio work. I'd say in any given year I only do 5% or less of my jobs in studio. So with that most of my on location work it is actually significantly faster to adjust light output to the tethered images I see pop up on the laptop. I used a light meter in the past when I thought "everyone/pros used it" and it's like I'm popping the flashes either way. I might as well just utilize a histogram and a preview of the finished product over what a flash meter says. To each their own and your more than welcome to use one on your work. But for me Zebra's with video and histogram within Lightroom give me all the information I need.

@colbewells1487 Fair enough, we all have different workflows. I'm retired now, but I mostly did studio work -- product and food for SF Bay Area tech companies and restaurants. I found that with some practice I could quickly grab a reading from the main light and use that to set the distance/power of the secondary or snoots. I could usually get pretty close before popping flashes which saved tons of time. Good luck with your channel.

@@aarontharris Congrats on your retirement! That's the other aspect as you stated. My lights are typically within a stop before I even take my first test shot. Also if you've been shooting since before digital (idk how old you are if you're retired) then yes a light meter was significantly more important then! and if it held over in your workflow that makes a ton of sense too!

Hey!! Super sorry I missed this comment! Business has been busy but still my bad. Im so glad to hear you bought it! How have you been liking it in general? The mod really helps doesn't it? Mine still is holding up strong and not getting beat up with the poles staying in. As for your question yeah I'm assuming you meant around the 5 min mark not the end of the video? the fabric is NOT attached to the clamps. However I have considered putting a hole in the fabric to do just that....But I'm nervous to do so haha. It would speed up the process even more BUT I do worry that it would also lead to more issues when packing the device. Not giving it much flexibility would probably lead it to ripping badly when rolling it together. Idk that's my thoughts at least what do you think?

Hey! Everything is in the pinned comment! :)

Thank you! I used the 3/4in clamps! I just made the change in the description too for people in the future.

Just a height adjustable drummer stool from a music store. You can find it anywhere online or at local music shop I'd imagine.

yep they were at the same kelvin temp. Not sure why it was like that. And yeah I ended up going with the Amaran myself. The reflector isn't amazing but honestly I only ever use the reflector when I'm doing bounce light or fighting the sun in a quick outdoor interview (where the hotspot helps actually) so it's really not a big deal to me.

Hey! product is: Photoflex Transpac Dual Kit Case

Those are all awesome points it really does seem like the amaran is the one for you. I did some personal testing myself and did decide that the amaran fit better into my workflow and I have since used it a lot and been quite happy with it overall! Use what you have enjoy it and fill in gaps when you need to later!

Backdrop is: Westcott X-drop Case is: Photoflex Transpac Dual Kit Case

thank you! I just fixed it!

Thank you! The case is: Photoflex Transpac Dual Kit Case And yeah I have a couple ideas I have been sitting on for a little bit now. That being one of them. I'd also like to do an update to my infamous why the magmod magbox failed for me. as well as just some general tips on gear!

Hey sorry I updated the description! It's the 3/4in

@@colbewells1487 Thanks so much!

@@NH4Ukraine2 not a problem!

The backdrop looks like the Westcott X-Drop system (with 5x7 and 5x12 backdrop options). It also comes in a Pro version designed for their 8x8 and 8x13 backdrops, but usable with the smaller versions as well.

As @AllenEmacdougall said the backdrop is the Westcott X-drop system. I have their original version which is 5x7 I believe. But as was also stated they do have different variations now so you may find a different one suits your needs (potential needs) better. As for the Roller Case is: Photoflex Transpac Dual Kit Case The stands are manfroto "Alu" series of stands that all clip together for easier transport. I do have 2 sizes I believe the 12' "master" and the 9' "ranker". The C stand is a Kupo Master C stand with Turtle base (5.7' variant in black) with a 40" grip arm. I think Ill put this as a pinned comment if I can figure out how to do that lol.

Glad to hear that it helped you really see how nice the setup and packing features are of the V3! It's really a great reflector! As for the clamps there is a link in the description! :) but most hardware stores should have something comparable! As for the 300pro.... that would require a whole other video to dive into. But the short of it is: "it's the best all around flash on camera or off camera I have ever seen." I tried the Profoto B10 before and it just didn't seem as consistent for its price point. But they are comparable in output, size, etc. I love Westcott modifiers however I love the proprietary mount that the flashpoint/godox has it's sturdy and a bit more robust for larger modifiers than a mini Bowens, and much smaller obviously than a standard Bowens. I feel the power is enough to do anything that "I" require indoors or outdoors. Since using them I sold my 400 pro because it was never used anymore. And lastly the pack size is wonderful, it's so small! All in all again the 300pro is hands down the best flash on the market IMO.

Hey All good thoughts. Let me preface the my video is more so comparing stuff that I think about in my decision making. Not necessarily a full all encompassing review of all details. With that said: - I do know that the amaran has an app, Im pretty sure that the Westcott does too. I know it has a bluetooth reset button so im assuming it does. But def check out westcotts page for more info around that. - Mine did come with a "honestly crappy" sock. I actually only use it with the sock. That said bare reflector to bare reflector was my main concern as you stated something that could be lost. - Lastly the Westcott does have a battery indicator. That I used 1 time. I typically use the new small rig Vmount batteries that have a battery life read out on screen. So for me not a big concern. Also not sure if it's worth $50 extra. SUB - Personally if you are doing something that might outlast 2 mid sized Sony batteries then you should probably be finding a different option for power. Most larger options will have battery indicators. All good stuff sounds like you should go make a very detailed review of these!

Awesome! glad you like them!

That's a wild deal! Right now it's 370 for just one light with the backpack and accessories.

I have not used these for weddings so I can not verify. However They do seem bright ENOUGH if it was a darker venue and you wanted to do say a "spotlight" on the couple for photo or video. I can't see how it wouldn't be powerful enough for that. All that said I can not confirm any of this with the godox as I have not had a chance to play with that light, but godox stuff typically is comparable.

Thanks for the feedback! It's a great little light honestly!

Im confused by your comment? The Mag Box is larger and more cumbersome than my setup, and is less effective. Your comment just really has nothing to do with the video I posted overall.

@@colbewells1487 Your confusion might be warranted if your subsequent statement was a universally acknowledged fact. Alas, it is an opinion, nothing more. Some people value the fact that the MagBox setup is neat, attractive, and self-contained. I suspect when MagMod was considering the state of the art during their design process, they probably weren't envisioning some photog walking around with a limp softbox hanging off his lightstand like some gruesome appendage. I personally don't think it looks very professional. And that Rapidbox looks like something some enterprising kid sold you on the side of the road one stormy day because you forgot your raincoat. However, I do understand that these are only my opinions, and I have no confusion about the fact that all may not share them.

I've heard bad stuff about Westcott sometimes too. But every company has their skeletons. Hopefully you can find a product that works perfectly for you!

lol I don't know when that is, but im guessing it was early on lol.

Well I highly doubt they will want to send me a new one to look at since this is by far the worst review they got...im sure not paying for it after the headache that happened last time. But yeah it seems like they have made some improvements...some of which I complained about. So If it's better then I'd be happy to say that however I really am not optimistic that it will be any better with the issues I had.

Unfortunately I don't think there is an "ultimate soft box solution" just the best one that might work for you, your budget, and your needs. But thank you for the kind words! I'd like to redo this with the current model too since they've fixed a couple of the initial issues that I had brought up.

Oh I was angry about the way they didn't stand behind their warranty and then took down my comments and reviews based upon my complaints with the product and them. That said my review of the product itself was not based upon anger just the way I feel it don't work for me personally. Hence the name "why it failed for ME". maybe not for you. If you like wasting 15 minutes setting up your modifiers that's all fine and dandy. I personally like just taking off a cover and opening it. I have not "built" a single one of my modifiers since the first time I bought them. I also do a ton of on location portraits and being able to just open the soft box and turn on the strobe saves myself and my clients a ton of time. But to each their own, if you charge by the hour like that I get it!

Well I'm sorry you feel that way. If you could reread the title, it does say: "why it failed for ME, my PERSONAL review" so I find it entertaining how you complain that I'm showcasing my personal problems. When that was pretty obvious literally before the video even started. As for your actual comment. It is more than the size, you are right. It is the overall function and design that is not great, which I state in the video. I also explain WHY the design doesn't work for ME, compared to other soft boxes. I do this by showcasing Westcott but I now use glow products often too, which also function in identical ways and are far superior to the magbox design for my needs. Also I do mention that the quality of light is identical if not better in the larger soft boxes which travel much smaller and easier and are lighter weight (answering another point of yours). As for material and robustness...I can not say to the long term usage of the magbox, I'm sure it's fine I did say it felt like a solid unit. But I have had my Westcott softbox for almost 6 years now it has been to hundreds of shoots, weddings, etc. It has been attached to lights that were blown over and it hit the ground from 10-12ft, etc and it's still rocking out fine....so I doubt the magbox is much different again...not necessarily a win for the magbox. Overall the product is fine it's a cool idea with a poor implementation in my opinion. Like how I said the magnetic front diffusion panel was poor...and look the new magbox PRO version has a zipper diffusion panel...because its better. They released a 42" model because it produces a larger better softer light. My complaints actually made changes, including a smaller version of the carrying case. So please don't come at me like this is all a bunch of nonsense of me complaining just to complain...if anything I improved the product instead of just fawning over it's...newness. Im not sure what you mean about the official product account statement if you could elaborate. Overall your comment sounds like others I have received from people who are either paid by magmod, or just over the top fanboys of a meh fad product line for some reason. Maybe not and you genuinely love the magbox which if that's the case...buy it, love it, use it. I really don't care. But considering between KZbin and Facebook I have had hundreds of people agree with me and my thoughts on it. Im not alone even if I'm a minority in my PERSONAL feelings.

That's a VERY open ended question in it's current form. Depends on how much power you need, what you are shooting, how fast you need to shoot, what sorts of modifiers you need to use, how much of a budget you have to spend, etc. If you want just a generic answer of what I think the best light on the market is right now..? I'm not SUPER up on the newest lights that are out. BUT For the money the Flashpoint (USA warrantied good) 300pro is unbeatable! If money isn't an option though Profoto B10x plus. As for the rest of the setup again that's very dependent upon what you are shooting and how you are shooting it.

@@colbewells1487 from what little I’ve researched it, agreed there are sooo many options hahaha I noticed a 430 EX RT going for €100 near me and Jinbei’s German distributor offering what look like awesome deals for their HD Pro line so I’m leaning towards grabbing one secondhand Canon and one Jinbei and seeing how they play together as well as which one I prefer shooting with solo. My first goal/challenge is to try and copy the Dylan Patrick cinematic headshot type of flash shot. Looking forward to learning and playing with this new step for me. Thanks for replying!

As far as modifiers I’m not sure which ones I’m getting yet but for budgets, seeing as it’s my first foray into the field I’m wanting to keep it relatively low without sacrificing the challenge at hand. I’m most likely going to get the biggest modifier my budget can afford from the Jinbei distributor seeing as they’re the most affordable across the board in my region.

Hey Milovan, it's their rapid box octa, they have now gone to the "rapid box switch" so you can use it with just about any light. given you have the correct adapter they sell. Great softboxes!

@@colbewells1487 do you have web link to a product. I can’t find it here in Europe. Thank you .

@@colbewells1487 Found it ! :-)

All address this in sections. 1. The "fuss" is sticking it in 3 slots and twisting. it takes about 2 seconds to complete with the pictured setup. 2.The smaller westcott box yes you do have to build it on the ground. Just like your magmod would be sitting on the ground as you take all the peices out of the giant case. Where the setup with the larger softbox means that your gear never touches the ground, and it's faster in every way than the magmod to setup. 3. I have not tested the newer pro because the first was so atrocious (IMO) Im sure the flash output on the much older, and much cheaper mini westcott would be worse. However you missed the point of the video if you think that matters. The point wasn't that the westcotts are better. it's that this magmod softbox in the video isn't any better than your average softbox setup. It's mostly a gimmick. Now I did say that if the magmod suits your needs with the gels, you don't care about saving setup time, you don't travel with the light already attached to stands, and you have $100-200 more to spend on it then by all means get the magmod. 4. Any larger softbox (including magmods 42") will catch more wind? I don't see how that's relevant, if you want to mitigate that then just get a smaller westcott/glow/etc. Again that has nothing to do with the point of the video, which is the magmod is bad for traveling due to its size. and when used with the case it's just as much of a pain to setup as any other softbox. 5. You got me the giant case can carry 2 speedlights/ad200s. That said 95% of all photographers I've ever met keep these smaller lights in their camera bags, or in a lighting specific hard case...if that is a selling point for you, that's fine like i've said about everything if the goods outweigh the bads then this is the softbox for you. does nothing for me now with larger lights (300+ watts) or anyone else who uses strobes. All that said, I still to this day have not seen any other negative reviews of this product. The way magmod screwed me and then shoved me under the rug, this is a video to all the people who care to not be sold something that doesn't suit their needs. It doesn't do half the stuff it was sold on doing, quick setup, and easy travel, so someone had to get out there and demonstrate this.

yeah thats the real problem is i can keep all the layers of diffusion always attached, and then leave the softbox on my light, and the light on the lightstand. I could do all that with the magbox system too but: A. it'll be huge B. the front diffusion WILL fall off. C. my light probably isn't super secure for travel. all when i can leave it attached and almost any softbox i come across now (even my tiny glow 24") has a side zipper so i reach in pull it back and I'm literally done. 10 second to flip the legs out, and push the box out. finished vs building the entire magbox each time which takes 1 minute MINIMUM... It's time savings doesn't actually save time in reality. It's a product no one actually asked for it's MOSTLY a gimmick IMO.

What is crazy about Magmod is that if you want to magnetically attach your flash to your softbox with a nifty little door, you need every single piece of the ecosystem to make it work. Starting with the Magshoe (the 2.0!), Magring, rubber mounts for the flash heads, expensive gels and finally the softboxes. They know what they are doing!

@@utubewatcher486 Absolutely it's marketing and a sales tactic. Sure could it save you a few seconds here or there...maybe? But realistically it's not getting you anywhere for the investment. and realistically I think buying a single good strobe is better than just plopping multiple speedlights into a softbox, also the new round head stuff doesn't work at all in this...which I get they can't build a one size fits all approach. But Their stuff is BULKY and heavy and requires so much work. Honestly Im on the AD300 pro plus the 300/400 mount stuff power, compact form factor, speed and price...it hits the sweet-spot. I might do a follow up video to this stuff later on my current build out.

@@colbewells1487 yeah the incompatibility with round heads is what tipped me over. That, and I just learned that the S2 bracket exists (I had the old one, which had trouble fitting a AD200 fresnel head.) So now I'm all good to go with round head everything