When are softboxes used?
- Thread starter MatthewC
- Start date
puredrifting
Major Contributor
Hi:
1. Softboxes are used wherever soft, more flattering light is needed, typically when photographing people.
2. They are not made to eliminate shadows, they are made to spread and diffuse a light source while giving you some directional control over that soft "blob" of light
3. Softboxes are most often used as a key source but can be used as a fill as well or even sometimes as a hairlight or rim.
It sounds as if you are thinking that lighting adheres to a strict sense of procedural rules, which it doesn't. Three point lighting is the most basic tip of the lighting iceberg, there is a LOT more to it than that although at least understanding the concept of three point lighting is a beginning.
Take some classes, read, read, read and most importantly, light! Shoot projects and light them yourself. Steal the best tips from the pros and learn how they do it. IMHO, the best way to learn how to light is to become a PA on a professional set with a good DP and observe, observe and ask an occasional question of a gaffer. Don't bug the DP, you will be annoying to most of them since you don't know what's up but if you are lucky, a gaffer will take you under his wing and perhaps teach you how to light. You live in a production town, get off your butt and go crew ;-)
You can make your own softbox with foamcore and gaffer tape, it's not that hard but it's a PITA to transport. The larger the box, the softer the light. I would really buy a Chimera or if you are broke, a Photoflex just make sure you get something that is designed for hot lights, not a still photo one or your video lights will torch it.
Best,
Dan
1. Softboxes are used wherever soft, more flattering light is needed, typically when photographing people.
2. They are not made to eliminate shadows, they are made to spread and diffuse a light source while giving you some directional control over that soft "blob" of light
3. Softboxes are most often used as a key source but can be used as a fill as well or even sometimes as a hairlight or rim.
It sounds as if you are thinking that lighting adheres to a strict sense of procedural rules, which it doesn't. Three point lighting is the most basic tip of the lighting iceberg, there is a LOT more to it than that although at least understanding the concept of three point lighting is a beginning.
Take some classes, read, read, read and most importantly, light! Shoot projects and light them yourself. Steal the best tips from the pros and learn how they do it. IMHO, the best way to learn how to light is to become a PA on a professional set with a good DP and observe, observe and ask an occasional question of a gaffer. Don't bug the DP, you will be annoying to most of them since you don't know what's up but if you are lucky, a gaffer will take you under his wing and perhaps teach you how to light. You live in a production town, get off your butt and go crew ;-)
You can make your own softbox with foamcore and gaffer tape, it's not that hard but it's a PITA to transport. The larger the box, the softer the light. I would really buy a Chimera or if you are broke, a Photoflex just make sure you get something that is designed for hot lights, not a still photo one or your video lights will torch it.
Best,
Dan
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