In Photography What is the difference between the soft box diffuser and umbrella and which is better to use ?

Question

I take pictur of still subjects as well as my kids, I wonder what is the best way using the soft box or umbrella or both ?

Answer 1

A soft box will generally produce more diffused and therefore softer light. However, it is less versatile than an umbrella which can be used a few different ways. Many umbrellas have a black cover which can be removed so you can shoot through the umbrella. When you do this, it is much like a soft box. If you put the cover on and shoot the light into the umbrella, it will reflect and produce a more concentrated light. I normally will use the soft box in the studio and shoot through umbrellas on location. I will use the umbrellas as reflectors if I am looking for dramatic light.

To answer your specific question, they both have a purpose, but if you are only going to get one, get an umbrella that can be used as both a reflector and a diffusor (shoot through) and you will get the most bang for your buck. Have fun!

Answer 2

Okie dokie. One umbrella or one softbox. I assume that most of these will be head shots. Going on that assumption you wouldn't be wrong to go with either modifier. A lot would hinge on the amount of space you're going to be working in. Again, I will make an assumption. Let's say its a worst case scenario and you have a small bedroom size place to shoot. Go with the softbox. Why? Because in a small space it will be hard (not impossible) to contain the light from an umbrella and your likely to drive yourself nuts trying to get an even background exposure and good exposure on your subject with only one light. The softbox can help that considerably. You don't really "need" a second light for fill. A reflector will do the trick. No need to drop a ton of cash there either. Go to a arts and crafts store and pick up a piece of white foamcore for a few bucks and bam...there's your second light source. You can definitely do what you want with only one light. You just have to learn some basic "tricks of the trade" to pull it off.

Answer 3

They would both produce a similar diffused light effect, so go with whichever you're more comfortable using.