Which Softbox Works For You? | 8 Lighting Modifiers Explained | FIELD TEST

[@hypop]

Tried something different! Let us know if you want to see more field test in our future videos! TIMESTAMPS: 0:26 Introduction 0:39 Rectangle Softbox Lighting Modifier (Godox 80x120cm Rectangle Softbox) 1:27 Diffuser Sheet (360x150cm Diffuser Sheet) 2:17 Octagon Softbox (Godox 120cm Octabox Softbox) 3:10 Parabolic Softbox (Spectrum Pro 120cm Parabolic Softbox) 4:02 Lantern Softbox (Spectrum Pro 80cm Lantern Softbox) 4:49 Softball Diffuser (Jinbei 50cm Softball Diffuser) 5:32 Beauty Dish (Hypop 80cm Beauty Dish Softbox) 6:19 Diffuser Umbrella (Godox 43" Umbrella Diffuser) 7:08 Softbox Results Comparison

[@prewishjay5581]

the first and second lighting modifiers arent they better to light the background than the 120cm octa?

[@ivanguerra1260]

The diffuser Sheet the best ! and you can buy it in some whereelse by a dollar or adapt it to an old umbrella....

[@jbandphotos]

Yes, That would be great!

[@QuoteMinute]

This is by far the best comparison between different diffusion systems I've ever seen!

[@hypop]

Thanks, we appreciate the comment!

[@mopunchstudio9289]

The fact they tried to keep everything the same while comparing is excellent.

[@ekoconnect2382]

The diffuser sheet seemed to have the most pleasing result followed by the omni directional lantern and ball. The cheap 43" umbrella also had a nice look. Thanks for the review.

[@hypop]

Definitely agree! If you're after nice even lighting for the entire shot then the diffuser sheet and 43" umbrella will get the job the done. This is also dependent on the output of your flash so look at flashes 400W and above when pairing with these types of modifiers.

[@antidoteify]

Agree no shadows, no wrinkles

[@icreatecontent67]

@@hypop Hello, why is it that the 400W or higher is preferred here ? Am I Missing something ?

[@dellacalfee]

@@icreatecontent67 because so much light is lost spilling in other directions you need a stronger flash. While the other types of softboxes capture and direct more light toward the subject

[@jaylesto_thephotographer]

I was thinking how the cheapest option still has a great outcome

[@tonyhaggerty9433]

This is the best example of softbox comparison I've ever seen! It is exactly what I was searching for! And no bad Jokes or raising your voice! Thank you thank you, thank you!

[@bekanenzar]

Funny how I watched this exact video almost 2 years ago when I was about to get my very first softbox... now I'm back again trying to decide if I should get the rectangular or circular softbox for product photography. Safe to say its a banger video 💯

[@Jason-rs1wr]

It's always safe to use a rectangular or square modifier for product photoshoots. We shoot mostly flat lays on our baby/kids clothing products for our e-commerce shop. I previously used a 2x4' softbox. However, I find it to be bulky and limited in terms of size especially when I'm shooting teens' clothing. One of my favorites is a diffusion fabric hung across two C-Stands over the product. This is very versatile since you could just easily bring the C-Stands closer together or further away if you want a larger modifier! But because of the weight of the diffusion fabric, it always gets pulled towards the products. It doesn't really affect the lighting but I don't like things getting in the way. So recently I improvised a 4'x4' frame using a stainless rod and elbow pipe fittings. This is a really good modifier since this is really huge but not bulky as the softbox. Using only one C-Stand we could put this frame with a diffuser over the products for flat lays shoots or we could position it just like any other modifiers.

[@silvere36]

Honestly, on first view through, I had a hard time really seeing the differences. I think the change in pose and clothing made the comparison difficult. Really cool to see all the different options though.

[@nick8418]

It‘s because the model is placed to close to the background…

[@ВалерийСаксофонов]

Yep. The model should have been keeping the same pose with different modifiers!

[@jasonbodden8816]

The differences were very apparent to me *shrugs*

[@jaylesto_thephotographer]

I would have to agree about the outfit change because of the way the light reflects on the fabric

[@sharonraboy3358]

Yeah, for a real comparison it should have been same clothes and composition... It's really hard to see much difference between them

[@bearer0975]

Good job. Its nice to see that your video actually is well lit, well composed, and in-focus. It's crazy how so many photo channels are overlooking this!

[@edurmissa]

The Diffuser Sheet is just so amazing; not in vain, that is the cinematographic crew style, they work all the time with a big light and cloth. In fact, it doesn't look fancy, but as we just watch, it works amazing. The main problem is that you need extra supports or more people to hold it. If you get a 5 in 1 reflector, something from 1.20m or bigger, you can get something similar to this.

[@hypop]

Agreed! A reflector with the translucent/diffuser surface will also achieve a similar result!

[@pruett89]

The quality of this video is so high. Glad I found your video.

[@hypop]

Appreciate the support!

[@MrSyngamer]

Now its even harder to choose... BECAUSE IT ALL LOOKS SO GOOD HAHA. Great job displaying and explaining the differences!

[@chvgsmandre]

This video has the info I've been looking for, spent over 3days looking for this kind of video and it's funny how I kept ignoring it everytime it pops up. So glad I watched it.... Love the colour palette for the shoot

[@hypop]

Glad you found it!

[@MrMolotov69]

I personally thought the diffuser sheet looked the most natural and felt less ‘sourcey’ in comparison to the different softboxes and umbrellas. The Jinbei ball looked pretty good too but is obviously the less portable option.

[@nicolasrouxditbuisson2369]

Clever, professional, usefull. Thank you for the time spended on it. You help me to choose my next tool.

[@hypop]

Glad to help

[@fangbifxx]

This is the best short and clear explain the different between these.

[@hypop]

Thanks, glad it was helpful!

[@manoharmgr8235]

வீடியோ மிகவும் பயனுள்ளதாக இருந்தது மிக்க நன்றி 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻 இரா.மனோகர் சென்னை . Very useful video sir, I learned lot from it, looking forward more videos like this keep it up good work, thanks a lot sir big thank you 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻 R.MANOHAR Chennai.

[@TheShelbinator3000]

Great video! Would love to see a version without the modifier spill, where the light source and subject are pulled away from the background and where the background is lit separately and evenly. Could help the audience understand each modifier better with relation an isolated subject. Though this is definitely very useful when space or # of lights available to the photographer are limitations.

[@CutieSparkling]

This has to be the best lighting video EVER !!

[@hypop]

Thanks so much!! 😃

[@bekanenzar]

This video is soooooo underrated. The explanations are brilliant and very easy to understand

[@hypop]

Thank you so much! Glad it helped you out 😍

[@Htoon2008]

This is one of the most honest reviews I've ever seen. I really liked it and it serves as a guide. The light from the ball is really very beautiful, but the one from the diffuser sheet enchanted me more than all. Grateful for your video.

[@hypop]

I appreciate that!

[@alistairnitz]

Thanks Rob. This an impressive video again. I like the field tests as a way to test lighting products.

[@hypop]

Thanks Alistair, glad you enjoyed the video!

[@ivanbuckingham2302]

I never like and rarely comment, but I just did both, what a brilliant video! This is the first video a studio beginner should watch.

[@hypop]

Thanks for the feedback, we appreciate it!

[@edmeldrum3342]

Thank you For a simple yet direct description with type of use Photography . Thank you

[@andyvan5692]

great comparisons, for fashon and portrait photographers, but one tip, the dress and pose are different in each shot; so, each reflects highlights differently, and more/less skin showing, as compared to the reflective fabric mean the light quality can't be consistent, even if the light is placed in the same spot. also a comparison of modifiers for use by other photographers, ie; car, product, or industrial, location photographers, what is the best choice for them.

[@hannahlee3239]

Let me know if you find a video that has the best suite modifier for cars, outdoor portrait, etc!

[@tmflk]

The best light explanation video I’ve seen! Thank you!

[@hypop]

Glad it was helpful!

[@bala1000mina]

Thank you so much Rob for the awesome tutorial about those modifiers! God bless you and your colleagues!

[@hypop]

Appreciate the kind words!

[@nikilragav]

The full sheet is by far the softest since it is the largest source. The rectangular looks slightly different. The rest all look almost the same. The ball seems to be hardest (should be the smallest source from the subject's point of view)

[@Si0bart]

Great to hear catchlight, and what each is for, simply put. Great video,

[@pellier08]

How do you smooth out your backgrounds quickly in post production?

[@samanthabalderas3858]

Finally a video that is straight to the point and informative!

[@hypop]

glad you enjoyed it!

[@watashisukidesu]

The content is so good, I feel guilty for watching this for free! Thank you!

[@hypop]

Glad you found it helpful

[@stvphzcam]

Would you please recommend which would be best for product photography/creative shoots like fashion, headshots? THANK YOU!

[@mattorrz759]

Finally found a good Aussie photography based channel. This was so helpful as I am just starting portrait photography. 👌

[@gmrtrinidad]

I'm in love with the Diffuser Sheet!😍😍😍

[@AlexTursh]

Question regarding the diffuser sheet setup - you said there is a reflector behind the sheet... can you explain where that is placed? I didn't see a reflector in the wide shot.

[@mrdennischapman]

This was an extremely well produced video. One comment, meant to be constructive, is that I would like to have seen one of each face shot with the modifier name below so that I and others could do a side by side comparison. Otherwise I have to jump back and forth from picture to picture by finding them on the timeline because some of the differences are very subtle. What I am going to do is to do a screen shot of each face and put the modifier under the photo and then past each of these pictures on one page so that I can compare......this will consume a lot of time but will be worth it.

[@hypop]

Thanks for the feedback. We'll definitely work on implementing a side by side comparison for future videos. We had the final comparison at 7:08 however all in one screen would be a lot easier to view.

[@mikaelholz]

straightforward and informative, thanks for this video!

[@Clebrush2]

Just before I subscribed to your page... I kept wondering the big differences between all of the light modifiers out there. Super super informative and thank you for sharing your knowledge. Thanks friend

[@hypop]

Welcome!

[@Andreassavvides78]

Thank you for the comparison. Ot seems that all diffusers can do the job with very nice results. Its interesting how well the translucent cloth and the diffuce umbrela performs comoare to more expensive softboxes. I like how the the light with with the translucent cloth softens the shadows nicely and how the translucent umbrella comes near to beauty dish. From the test missing the silver reflective umbrella.thank yiu

[@dansedran]

Thanks for this, straight to the point and easy to see the comparison. Great video!

[@Fokhus]

this was a very informative video, thank you immensely, and great job to the model as well, she killed it

[@hypop]

Thanks for the feedback and glad it was helpful!

[@just.do.something]

Favorite was just the diffuser sheet. Thanks for this great video.

[@boahandarrowsproductions4326]

Thank you for putting your time into this.

[@steveparkins6854]

Fantastic...real world comparison --very grateful!!

[@AforismiDAutoreAD]

What is the background color's name used?

[@DigiDriftZone]

The results looks surprisingly similar. The octagon softbox gets the vote from me though for the versatility. Especially a softbox where you can add/remove an internal diffuser which can be gold/silver to add a beauty dish type effect, or add an external diffuser to soften it up even more (in combination with the internal diffuser or on its own) and then add a honeycomb grid on top of that when you need a darker background and less light spillage.

[@ericthestone]

Love the diffuser sheet as a one light setup in the video! What's your opinion on one modifier for outdoor portraits use?

[@hypop]

Depends on the look you're after but in most cases on modifier for outdoor portraits definitely works!

[@herbert6458]

WOW, useful comparison, Thank you.

[@Homebanner666]

now that exactly the video i was looking for. Thank you very much

[@hedgehogenglish]

Thank you so much! I'm looking at getting a softbox right now and this is really helpful

[@Phirangipani]

Awesome facts and incredibly explained! Would love to see your future videos.

[@hypop]

Thanks and glad it was helpful!

[@marclabro]

do you assemble first the bowens ring before inserting rods in fabric ? i always see reverse and people having difficulties to bend rods to fit the bowns adapter holes (also they always hesitate which hole to use). just ordered a godox 22x90cm stripbox. is it enough for rim light ? other brands make 30x90.

[@luissalazar2021]

Truthfully I want to have them all Thanks for sharing Good job team!!!

[@marcuspersley]

Great review video showing the different types of lighting mods. In your opinion which modifier do you believe would best in your opinion to light darker skins tones?

[@oscarsoto3176]

This has been the best educational and to the point video, just what I was looking for👍💯

[@pellier08]

In the BTS shots your backdrop is very bubbly looking. In your final shots it is very smooth. How do you edit your backdrops to make it so smooth and even?

[@kathy163]

I am learning studio photography. Why wouldn't he also light up the right side with a softbox as well to avoid the shadow behind the model? Wanting to learn. Thank you!

[@theshopper6902]

3:30 can you pls. Explain here, why many YT creators are using parabolic softbox only..???? I can't find an exact answer as there are cheap options such as rectangle, octabox also available for videos shooting?

[@TertioFilmDesign]

Great model too, seemed very comfortable with her poses

[@Swizzenator]

Your model knew exactly how to use and complement her looks posing. The closeup shots had incredible depth and detail. I didnt see what camera and lens were used.

[@leninmoreno4020]

Awesome video. One question, is it possible to remove the models shadow? And if so, what kind of light and position can this be possible. Thanks

[@benlem9649]

Great video. Where did you get the back drop ? It’s very simple and clean.

[@DOORNmedia]

Can I just ask a simple question? What are your camera settings for these shots? You use a 600watt strobe, what are the flash settings? I mostly shoot at 1/160 f 8 (9 or 10) iso 100 I own 300watt strobes and i mostly never use them at 1/1 power...

[@Erikchnl24]

Thank you for including the RAWS. Gained a subscriber 🙏🏼

[@hypop]

Thanks for the sub!

[@pyroBlastM]

Can I ask you what was the flash power for the rectangle study shows as first and the 120cm? Thanks

[@nitinh2499]

Nicely done. I like the way you’ve brought out the differences between the different modifiers. First time seeing those lantern modifiers... you learn something new every day. 🙂👍🏼

[@MC-hr1py]

This video had me looking at diffuser sheets for the first time ever, closest thing to natural window light IMO.

[@MIKECanal]

Awesome video. Which modifier you recomend like for kids groups indoor photoshoot? With a pair or strobes like godox v860II?

[@SusanneGeert]

I would love to know as well;-)

[@hanabaric5607]

Can you name which softboxis I would need for these things: whole room - day in life shoots ( cause my apartment is very dark ) + more of a product shoots with also a couple close up shots on them...

[@hypop]

We'd suggest a large softbox, such as a 120cm Parabolic for a whole room setting, or even a large umbrella to have a wider spread of light. For product shoots a rectangular or octagon works well, depending on the type of product. A bottle for example, would be better suited to a rectangular / strip softbox

[@sara.k66]

Hello, how are you? Please advise which softbox lightning to buy for food photography

[@Jantasie]

May I ask you what softbox you recommend for branding shoots with entrepreneurs? And what's the difference between a flash softbox and a continious light with softbox?

[@anayost2371]

One of the most informative videos on the subject, thank you !

[@hypop]

We're glad you like it!

[@dreasvision]

yesss great video .... straight to the point and very informative

[@constantgauthier-aleveque6812]

This is the video I was waiting for so long! Thank you so much! 🙏🏻

[@hypop]

You're so welcome! :D

[@maromaro9019]

Thanx for your video! What is the good & affordable soft box matching with FV150W? I'm going to use it in youtube videos for food making, interviews.... and also in photos. Also please recommend sturdy and affordable stand for that. Thanks

[@acesofgambit]

How about the umbrella box or umbrella with diffuser?

[@RobertoRaymon]

You only touched on Bowens mount modifiers (except for the umbrella at the end)

[@hypop]

We're Godox specialists so focusing more on Bowens than other mounts like Elinchrom, Profoto, Broncolor etc...

[@aldowildan]

Diffuser sheet give almost shadowless background. Octagon give medium hard shadow and parabolic more harder.

[@hypop]

Well spotted!

[@saravananjanakiraman3923]

Thanks review about outdoor shoot with basic Godex 860 flashes

[@SnapperNik8]

Hi, I enjoyed that video as I'm struggling trying to figure out the best solution for me. However I have to say the difference in most of the choices were, to my eye, minimal. The cheapest solution of the shoot through umbrella was beautiful and I would be delighted with those images. Perhaps that's what I need to take away from this is to get a basic shoot through setup and take it from there? The only other issue I need to appreciate fully is shotting high speed sync with a studio setup. But overall that was very informative. Thank you

[@hypop]

Thanks for the feedback. Sometimes simple is best!

[@MrShijo]

So,diffuser sheet and octagon softbox, the best

[@esyromkennel]

Great comparison of softbox lighting modifiers

[@hypop]

Glad you liked it!

[@curtisb1824]

Nice video , but I would like to know if the Lantern light modifier ! Would be good when shooting environmental portrait ? And if so , I would like to see a video done with this light modifier ! .....Thanks !

[@hypop]

Thanks, that's a good idea. It will be fine for environmental portraits but it's less directional so it will depend on the output/power of the light as you will have light spillage and less control.

[@kennypringle4580]

How much difference in improvement will I see between shooting full body singles or couple with a 24” soft box and a 32” or 36”? I only own 24”’s but I’m considering buying a 34 to 36” softbox with my ad200 Pro flash.

[@hectorramos599]

What’s lens was used ? Pictures look beautiful.

[@hypop]

Sigma 35mm Art f1.4 (Canon)

[@Bryan-lu4du]

I'm picking up an AD 1200 Pro strobe soon. There is a family of 4 that would like an outdoor shoot pretty soon. Is there a modifier that would give me enough coverage for 28mm or 35mm family portraits outdoors and still soft enough light? I would prefer using just the 1 AD 1200 Pro until I can get a 2nd strobe to cover both sides if necessary. Thanks

[@udaypamphilos]

Sir, thanks for the detailed explanation and sample shots. I have a question - I am a beginner photographer from India and I was asked by a fashion startup company to shoot their apparel with models/mannequins in the studio. Our budget is very limited and I am looking at Godox AD300 Pro with a 120 CM Octabox as my key light. I already have a Godox TT685 and a small softbox which I can use as a rim/hair light or as a secondary source to light up the background. Could you please suggest if I can light up head to toe shots with the AD300Pro and 120 CM Octobox? Please suggest.

[@tasosgamvrelis3880]

Could you use the godox ad 200 pro to light correctly all of the modifiers or it is not enough?

[@gautthammohan]

Its more than enough:)

[@dodo7899]

I would be interested in which Flash are you using?

[@ishaarora1464]

How much should be the exposure of lights in case of rectangular and octa soft boxes ?

[@dajanaraicevic]

hello, i’m fairly new to photography, so i was wondering which softbox would you recommend for a beginner, that is not very expensive but still pretty functional ?

[@simonmonty7171]

The umbrella or sheet are the cheapest

[@taniav.7409]

Thank you for so detailed video and good comparison with examples. Can you please tell me what paper background you used in this video and what color it was?

[@sulavsharma277]

Hello ! Please help me which softbox to buy ? I am setting a small home photo studio just to take single, family portraits and kids theme photoshoot.

[@habibi6458]

Is there a continuous light that you would recommend that is similar to the Godox ad600?

[@shumayla25]

Hello :) there is a big differences between an octabox 100cm and a 120cm? Thank you so much 😊

[@hypop]

Hi there, in general the larger the softbox, the softer the light. This is relative to the size of your shooting subject though so for example, the difference is less noticeable if you're shooting something small like product photography verses a larger subject such as full body portrait photography.

[@shumayla25]

Thank you 😊

[@sergioosoriom.2659]

what a great photoshoot!!!!!!!!!!!

[@olayinkadotun]

Hello Hypop, please which softbox can you recommend for a beginner in Photography, thanks

[@marclabro]

nice review. what do you think about godox ads085s for ad400 pro ? if possible without inner diffusers which seem tedious to assemble and handle. to be compared with EZ glow 36"...

[@paulwatson5030]

Excellent review for a newbie like me! Thanks.

[@hypop]

Thanks for watching!

[@shoestringquartet]

what a fantastic comparison . so very helpful.Thanks

[@Cjcool03]

Thats was very helpful, but i need a help i want ask you if Godox Ad-S65s 64/25.6inch will fit in Godox SK400ll professional 400ws ? i need a reply.. Thanks