I just received my Octagon softboxes that are used as a light modifier for flash photography. They set up super fast like umbrellas but function more like traditional softboxes. I'll do a video later about how easy these things go together with my Speedlights.
500 LED Video light - Pop up Softbox
Normally you would use a strobe in the brolly, but the slotted design can be used for other light sources. Gabriel is already experimenting with using a 500 LED video light panel inside (photo above). He had to add a clamp to hold the umbrella in place. It blocks a bit of space, but should still help to change it from a small light source to a larger softer light source. Could even help with the multi-shadow issue that LED lights can sometimes cause. I'm curious to see the results. [Thanks Gabriel].
They also come in a large square version that still pops open like an umbrella. You can find more information about these following the link to the original article (click here).
Octagon Umbrella Softbox for Portable Studio Flash
Cheesycam
@Nikita Pavlov - All diffusing modifiers will have a loss of light output.
Nikita Pavlov
Have you worked with it? I bought it and I loose so much light.
Birchblaze
I picked up on of these 80cm octagon umbrellas and it looked great at first. We were on a shoot on Friday and I actually hand-held it with a z96 inside, worked great. After we were done with it, I noticed to my great disappointment that two of the ribs were significantly bent. I tried to bend them back, but quickly realized that the thin metal of the ribs was now permanently fatigued and beyond repair. I realize that at $30 a pop, we're not talking about the greatest quality here, but I certainly didn't expect a major failure without cause. Pretty disappointed!
jeremy earl mayhew
I actually use the sock from the alien bees bueaty dish and put that over the led and it works pretty good too...
Bob Peak
This is an interesting (silly) idea. Bouncing light looses a lot more light than shoot through. It would be smarter to aim the light at a light panel (https://www.calumetphoto.com/eng/product/calumet_42x78_aluminum_frame_and_three_fabric_panel_kit/rm7359k) if you are trying to soften it. However great the LED lights are, they don't have the power (throw) of tungsten/halogen lights.
mark london
I've been working on something similiar using the 352 ringlight, and also a basic version - putting an umbrella in front of a Micro Litepanel.
Will send you pics when I can.
I bet this works well.
j hanna
I got a square one. i put my led 270 inside. i first mounted it onto a flash holder with an umbrella bolt..connexted everything and turned it on. WOW....it doesn't explode in light but it sends out a great burst of soft light perfect for filling in the space.
Dave Nunez
What is the build quality like? Will the ribs of the umbrella bend/crease like a regular umbrella if the wind catches the light stand and it all takes a tumble or will it spring back like a normal softbox or reflector disc?
Looking at this as a cheap alternative to the Apollo Orb and Strip boxes.
Thanks!
- Dave