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Photography vocabulary · Light & Lighting

Softbox

Meaning in photography, with examples

/ˈsɔːftbɑːks/nounCommon term

In photography, softbox means: A box-shaped light modifier with a white, translucent front that fits over a flash or lamp to spread its light and make it softer.

In Turkish: softbox, ışık kutusu

How it is used

A basic tool in portrait and product studios. It comes in square, long rectangular (strip box) and octagonal (octabox) shapes. You set up the softbox, move it closer or feather it so the edge of the light falls on the subject. It is often compared with umbrellas and beauty dishes.

Example sentences

  1. Put the big softbox at 45 degrees to her face.

  2. One softbox and a white wall are enough for simple product shots.

Common collocations

  • large softbox
  • octagonal softbox
  • strip softbox
  • softbox with a grid
  • soft lightLight from a large or diffused source, such as a cloudy sky, a window or a softbox, that creates gentle shadows and smooth transitions.
  • strobeA powerful flash unit, usually used in a studio on a light stand, that gives a short, bright burst of light.
  • key lightThe main and usually strongest light in a lighting setup, which sets the direction and mood of the light on the subject.
  • reflectorA flat, usually foldable surface in white, silver or gold that bounces light back onto the subject to fill in shadows.

More terms: Light & Lighting

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