Our softboxes and accessories page gathers the light modifiers that shape and soften your studio or location lighting: rectangular and parabolic softboxes, octaboxes, stripboxes, lanterns, grids and reflectors. Whether you shoot portraits, products or video, a good modifier changes the look of your light more than almost any other upgrade.
How to choose a softbox
Size matters first: the larger the softbox compared to your subject, the softer the light. Small boxes suit product work and tight spaces; large ones suit portraits and full-length shots. Shape also counts. Octaboxes and parabolic softboxes give round catchlights and even, natural-looking light, while strip boxes work well for rim light and edges.
Mount is the next check. Many modifiers here use a Bowens mount, such as the Godox P90 Parabolic Softbox with Bowens Mount (35.4") or the Godox QR-P60T Quick Release Softbox. Others are made for specific LED lights, so check your light's model before ordering.
Grids, reflectors and lanterns
Grids add control by limiting light spill, and reflectors give a more focused, contrasty beam, like the Westcott 45-Degree Deep Focus Reflector. Lanterns, such as the Aputure Lantern Softbox, spread soft light in all directions and suit interviews and room-filling video light. For a quick-setup kit, see the Elinchrom D-Lite RX 4/4 Softbox To Go Kit.
Brands we carry
- Godox: quick-release Bowens softboxes in many sizes, with matching grids.
- Aputure: light domes, lanterns and boxes for LED lights.
- Westcott: reflectors, inserts and light mods.
- Elinchrom: Rotalux octaboxes and stripboxes.
Frequently asked questions
What is a softbox used for?
A softbox diffuses and enlarges your light source to give softer shadows and flattering light for portraits, products and video.
What size of softbox should I buy?
Choose a larger softbox for portraits and full-length shots, and a smaller one for products or tight spaces.
What is a Bowens mount softbox?
It is a softbox with a Bowens-style speed ring or mount, designed for lights using that mount. Check that your light uses it.
What is the difference between a softbox and an octabox?
A softbox is usually square or rectangular, while an octabox is eight-sided and gives rounder catchlights in the eyes.