Softbox size question

[steve_l]

In my set up, I am using two softboxes for my key and fill. One is a larger

softbox than the other. Should the larger softbox be used as the Key or Fill?

 

Thank you

[paul_d5]

Steve - I would guess the larger box should be used for fill but lets hear what the experts say!

[ellis_vener_photography]

that would depend on the effect you are lookign for and the distances from each softbox to

the subject.

[brucecahn]

The larger box will be the softer light. You did not mention what subject you are shooting. If portraits, you want the softer light to be the main light. You will get a better picture with the larger box on the subject and fill with a reflector. Put the small box on the shelf.

[steve_l]

Thank you all for your input. I apologize that I did forget to mention that I am shooting portraits.

[DickArnold]

The closer you get with the softbox the softer the light. If you want the softest you can get use the larger box. I do this with almost all my female portraits. Get close with the big softbox.

[twmeyer]

I would reverse that opinion and put a grid on the small softbox... t

[jimi_james]

I depends on the face you photograph. Some faces look better with harder light or side

light with small softbox, other faces look better in soft light from large softbox. The other

point is that you must know how to position small and large softbox to make the lighting

look good.

[cary_africk]

OK folks... How "large" is a large softbox for portraits, and how small is a "small" softbox? What if you're shooting a couple?

[brooks short]

A 2'x3' softbox is small for a single or couple portrait. Too small really for a two-person portrait.

 

A medium 3'x4' softbox used very close to a single subject for a portrait is a good choice for soft lighting. The same medium 3'x4' soft box used for a couple's portrait is barely large enough if you want very soft light. A medium softbox for a couple's portrait is good for a somewhat harder light.

 

A large 4'x6' softbox is good for a group of 2-4 people used at a distance 6 ft. or so.