Looking for a light stand or a photography umbrella? This page brings together stands, C-stands, boom arms, umbrellas and light-shaping accessories for flashes, monolights and LED lights, whether you shoot portraits, products or video.
How to choose a light stand
Start with the weight of what the stand will hold. A flash alone needs far less support than a monolight with a softbox, so choose a sturdier stand for heavier setups. Height matters too: a taller stand lets you place the light above your subject. For location work, a compact stand such as the Manfrotto 1052BAC Compact Stand is easier to carry, which is what most people look for in a portable or travel light stand. In the studio, a stand with air cushioning, like the Manfrotto Alu Ranker Air-Cushioned Light Stand (Black, 9') or the Savage 10' Heavy Duty Air Cushioned Light Stand, helps the sections come down gently. For a steadier base under larger modifiers, look at the SHAPE 40'' C-Stand Turtle Base Kit Black, or add the SHAPE Heavy-Duty Boom Arm for Light Stands to hang a light overhead.
Which umbrella for which look
- White diffusion: light passes through the umbrella for a soft, wide spread.
- White bounce: light is reflected back toward your subject for a gentle, even effect.
- Silver bounce: reflects a brighter, more contrasty light.
Westcott offers all three styles in 7' sizes, such as the Westcott Standard Umbrella - Silver Bounce (7'). For more choices, browse Umbrellas & Accessories, Light modifiers or Light Shaping.
Brands we carry here
You will find Manfrotto, Westcott, Godox, Aputure, Elinchrom, Shape and Savage, as well as Avenger, Amaran, Kupo, NanLite, Safari and Lastolite. If you are matching a modifier to a light, check the mount of your model first.
Frequently asked questions
What is a light stand used for?
It holds a flash, strobe or continuous light at the height and angle you want, so you can light your subject without holding the light.
Can I put a flash on a light stand?
Yes, stands are made for this. Check that you have the right adapter or bracket for your flash model to attach it, and an umbrella holder if you want to use an umbrella.
What is a good travel light stand?
Look for a compact stand that folds down small and is light enough to carry, while still being sturdy for your light. The Manfrotto 1052BAC Compact Stand is one place to start.
What is the difference between an umbrella and a softbox?
An umbrella is quick to set up and spreads light widely. A softbox gives you more control over where the light falls.