What is a small softbox useful for in portrait photography?
Asked 3/19/2013
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How practical is a very small softbox—around 8x9 inches, such as a Lumiquest Softbox III—for portrait work indoors? Can it work as a key light for close headshots, or is it generally too small? Is it better suited as a fill light for 3/4-length or full-body portraits? I’m mainly trying to understand the most effective use cases for a compact softbox and when a larger light source would be preferable.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
13y ago
2 Answers
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I can think of a lot of uses for the Lumiquest Softbox III (or other type boxes), too many to answer your question directly. In fact I think you've already begun to answer your own question. I use a similar set up with a Lastolite Professional 15" softbox for pocket strobe. I often use this unit as a key for head-shots, both indoor and out and use it as a fill for 3/4 and full body shots. I've also used it to add a little splash on editorial portraits and some indoor architectural shots.
Originally by user1451. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user1451
13y ago
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Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
A small softbox can be very useful, but its effectiveness depends on subject size and distance. For portraits, it can work well as a key light for close headshots, especially when placed near the subject. Because the apparent size of the light source matters, a small softbox becomes relatively softer when used close in.
For larger framings such as 3/4-length or full-body portraits, it’s generally more useful as a fill light than as the main key. It can also be used to add a controlled splash of light on editorial-style portraits or even some interior/architectural details.
The reason larger light sources are often preferred for indoor portraits is that they stay soft over a larger area and cover bigger subjects more evenly. A very small softbox is more limited in coverage and becomes harder-edged as you move it farther away.
So yes: doable for indoor portraits, especially headshots and controlled accent/fill use. For broader, softer coverage on larger subjects, a bigger modifier is usually the better choice.
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