Softboxes

Many studio photographers claim softboxes as one of the most important photography accessories to own. A softbox is made of high quality fabric with the four outside edges in black with white, silver or gold insides and a translucent cover. Metal frames hold the fabric in place over a light, usually in a square shaped box pattern. A Westcott softbox includes an adjustable collar with flame resistant or retardant material. These fit over a flash head used in photography.

The main use of softbox lighting is to control contrast through an even light. Large softboxes soften and dim the beam from a source light. A small softbox works to control high contrast. They are easy to control, which is why most photographers use them in portrait or small item stock photography. A soft box also helps to control shadows and hot spots on reflective surfaces like metal or glass.

Most softboxes come with instructions to put it together. Basic softboxes include four metal poles, a rotating speed ring to hook the poles and diffusers to, a translucent front panel, an internal white (or other color) interior panel and the outside black cover. Some include Velcro on the panel and covers. Find instructions online through manufacturers web sites and a search engine on how to assemble a softbox for specific brands.

For those just starting out, or on a budget, small softboxes generally cost less than other photography accessories, but it can get costly to buy the larger sizes. Even a simple softbox can cost a couple hundred dollars. Another option is to learn how to make a softbox for photography.

One type of homemade softbox fits over a camera flash head. The only materials the inventor uses is a picture mounting card, glue, packaging tape and tissue paper (or other translucent material). This inventive design helps block unwanted shadows while it softens and brightens the subject.

Make a larger softbox with cardboard, thin white muslin or silk material, Velcro and glue. DIYphotography.net offers tutorials and shows diagrams of how to make your own softboxes with just a few materials without breaking the bank. A few articles on iStockPhoto.com give instructions on how to make a larger soft box.

An online search for "homemade photography softboxes" will bring up a list of sites with a tutorial to fill your need. Find more information about soft boxes online at photography websites, magazines and forums.