BetterPhoto Q&A
Category: New Answers

umbrella vs. soft box

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February 10, 2006

This is probably not what you want to hear, but to answer your specific question;

"Is there a big difference in in picture quality with using umbrellas vs. softboxes? Yes and no. LOL

In my opinion; neither produce the "best" picture quality. Each has it's own merits and disadvantages.

Both will provide excellent results depending on your specific need.

Generally; softboxes produce "softer" light than umbrellas. (i.e), the transition from shadow to light is considerably more graduated. However; when the umbrella is used as a shoot-thru, it too produces softer light compared to using it as a bounce.

Umbrellas; as you know, when used as bounce lighting, can have different reflecting surfaces, white, gold, silver etc...Again, generally speaking, softboxes usually don't modify the color.

One of the disadvantages with softboxes (when compared to a umbrella) is that they need to be quite close to your subject to get the "softest" look. So if you are photographing a full body bridal portrait, you'll need a big softbox. At least 60 inches.

Softboxes are also rather bulky to carry around, set up and position.
Positioning of the softbox is MUCH more critical.

On the plus side of umbrellas, they have 1) greater range (distance) when used as bounce.
You basically aim the thing in the general direction and I doubt you'll miss.
2) Easy to transport and setup.
3) They can be used as bounce AND shoot thru.
4) Color change is easy.

With that said, I DO use a large softbox when shooting a bridal portrait, especially if the bride is dressed all white. The shadow transitions in this case are far superior than the umbrella.
I also use two umbrellas in the same shot, a small background one and large one as shoot thru, (white) for fill.
..and finally a snoot light for the hair.
Keep in mind, I do this in my studio where I control all aspects of the light, not simply the strobes.
If I were to shoot on location for a wedding, I would NOT bring my softboxes for some of the reasons mentioned above.

In a formal (studio) setting where YOU control the light, (ambient), (reflective) etc... the softbox is hard to beat.
In a church or outside they are a pain in the butt and generally will not produce consistent results, again; because you can not control all the light. (well; you can if you have enough assistants) LOL

"Is the quality better?"
It all depends on who,what,where and the effect you are trying to achieve.

Hope that helps a little,
All theBest,

Pete

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February 10, 2006

That was very helpful. Thanks!!!

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February 10, 2006

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February 10, 2006