Focus on the Subject

I purchased this softbox from Adorama.com because I was looking for a speedlight modifier that focuses most of the light onto the subject and has very little light spill onto the background or the surrounding area. I was attracted to this softbox, in particular, because of the price. It sells for less than half the price of similar products made by some of the more familiar names.

Of course, the adage “you get what you pay for” has been around for so long because it’s true. Generally, the higher the quality of the product, the more you can expect to pay for it.

In this case, however, I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and workmanship exhibited by this product. The fabric material and the aluminum rigging are very sturdy and should last for years of opening, use, closing and storing. The unit comes with:

an internal diffuser
an external diffuser
a reversible aluminum deflection plate
an egg-crate grid
a Bowens mount speedring adapter – 150mm (the Bowens mount itself is not included)
a storage bag
and a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty.

This softbox has an umbrella design that is easy to open and get ready for a shoot. It should take only a few minutes to go from storage to use. The internal diffuser attaches with snaps, and the external diffuser and egg-crate grid attach with Velcro. I did find that snaps on the internal diffuser fit together tightly, and I had to insert the edge of a knife to separate them on disassembly. I expect the connection will loosen with time, and at least, I won’t have to worry about the snaps separating during a shoot.

Photo of Jacquelyn Lynn taken by Jerry D Clement

Photo by Jerry D Clement using Glow Softbox

The diameter of the opening is 36.5″ and the depth of the silver-lined interior is 28.75″, giving the unit the soft light-focusing ability I was looking for. See the included photo proving that this softbox does, indeed, provide soft, focused light on the subject with insignificant light spill.

I am truly satisfied with the Glow EZ Lock Deep Parabolic Quick Softbox, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for similar results.