11/13/2012

Using A Speedlite Softbox In Photography

By Madeline Finch


Perhaps one of the most important factors in successful photography is lighting because it can greatly affect the finished product. If there is to much light, the subject could be lost in glare, but if there is not enough they may be drowned in the shadows. One tool that some of the best photographers use to combat this issue is a speedlite softbox flash.

This product is considered by many serious photographers as one of those items that one must have in order to complete their camera kit. Studio lighting is not always available and natural sources are not always reliable but this item is an acceptable substitute for both and it is easily transported virtually anywhere. This makes it perfect for shooting weddings and properties as well as portraits and product shots.

Not only does this item provide the convenience of portability, but it also emits a great style of light that can be used in many ways. The flash source is indirect and when used in certain methods provides unique results. This becomes evident in the more sophisticated and polished look of the final products.

The unique lighting conditions are achieved by the construction of the product. It starts with a speedlite, which is a small, portable, battery powered flash that emits an intense strobe style of light. This bulb is enclosed by a softbox which is constructed to have on side that is reflective while the other three are black with the open end being covered by a diffuser.

The short, intense light being directed through the diffused material spreads the illumination and prevents hard glares and burst of brightness in the photographs. Photographers like to experiment with different ways to use this product, like bouncing the shine off the ceiling or wall, to achieve various effects like a soft finish. This type of flash is usually very flattering to the subject.

This method is often preferred by those who take portraits because it softens the hard glares that normally appear on certain parts of the face and in the eyes. When doing a still life or product shot with a table top camera, it is an effective way to control shadows. In landscape photography this product is great for bringing items in the foreground into greater focus.

There are several different sizes of this product that are designed to be used both as part of the camera and as stand alone flashes. This allows the photographer to use it as a mobile light source and move from one subject to another without having to redo the set up. They also have the option of setting it up stationery so that the illumination is steady no matter what angle the photo is taken from, thus controlling the shadows.

A speedlite softbox allows a photographer near complete control over the quality of light that appears in their work. It is important that the lighting be just right to avoid many exposure issues from extreme brightness to total shadow domination, any of which can make a photo appear completely unprofessional. The perfect amount of diffusing and softness can make the photo more than just good, it can make it outstanding.




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