Softboxcreate soft illumination that wraps well on the subject while light from umbrella is slight harder and wider

3. Umbrella and Softbox, both are two of the most used lighting
devices in photography. They are both used for generating
different type of effects

4. So Similar
Yet So
Different

5. Illumination from a softbox
and umbrella is similar. But
an expert photographer can
make out the difference
between the both

6. Understanding Softbox Lighting

7. Light generated by
softbox wraps well
around the surface of a
subject. The rays fall on
surface in a scattered
manner. It is an ideal
example of soft light. If
you look at the shadow
created with the
illumination you will
find that light and
shadow blend in not so
distinct a manner

9. A diffusing umbrella
generates soft light
but the rays are
directional and
stronger than those
coming out of a
softbox. So this
results in more
contrasting light
effect. This is the
reason light from
umbrella is
sometimes also
referred to as harder
light

11. Now you know the difference between umbrella and softbox
lighting you should choose between them. Choose softbox
for soft and wrapping illumination or opt for umbrella for
sharper and wider light. You want semi hard light you can
also opt for Elinchrom beauty dish