Soft boxes for Hensel

[jay dougherty]

No dealers in U.S. seem to have Hensel accessories. Tried to get a

softbox from Badger, and they can't do it. Salesperson suggested

photoflex, but I've never used anything but Hensel.

 

Anyone recommend a good softbox from a manufacturer that offers a

speed ring for Hensel integra units? The Chimera is frequently

mentioned, I see. But they seem awfully expensive.

 

I need a 3-foot and a 5-foot softbox.

 

Also, while I'm on the subject, has anyone used these thin but long

softboxes? Forgot their names. What are they used for, exaclty?

 

Thanks.

[ellis_vener_photography]

<I>The Chimera is frequently mentioned, I see. But they seem awfully expensive.

But they seem awfully expensive. </I><P>Chimera is a company that makes

softboxes. Their website is <A href = http://www.chimeralighting.com>http://

www.chimeralighting.com</a>. Chimera makes softboxes for flash in a variety of

sizes and types, including "strip" type softboxes -- the long thin ones you asked

about. Strips lights are useful for some lighting set ups but I can't recommend them

for general purpose use. <P>As far as Chimeras being expensive, well that is a

relative thing. You can buy softboxes made out of cheaper materials, that are not

sewen as well, that discolor more quickly with age and with rods that snap more

easily. So I think you pay for what you get with Chimera. There are also I think about

three different price ranges in the Chimera product line. Chimera is the gold standard

for professional photographic light modifiers (the "platinum" standard is from <a href

= http://www.plumeltd.com> Plume, Ltd.</a>. You might also go to <a href =

http://www.calumetphotographic.com>Calumet Photographic</a> and do a search

search for Illumina softboxes.<P>

[anthony_harrison2]

I've used Hensel Contras for several years, and don't regret it for one minute - so far (crossing fingers here) I haven't even needed to change a modelling light or flash tube. Ellis's recommendation of Chimera is good, since their reputation for quality is excellent. Though I've lost their catalogue, I recall that Photoflex offer a Hensel adaptor ring for their units - I have a couple of Photoflex umbrellas that are OK, though a couple of struts have broken.

I use a Calumet large softbox, bought here in the UK but since they seem to be international I imagine the same items are available stateside. It's fine, good size for interiors, nicely diffused, reasonably quick to assemble, and was very inexpensive. I think the Hensel boxes have only a single diffuser, lacking the first-stage internal diffuser that is pretty well essential for even diffusion. Go for Chimera without hesitation, or to save some money, the Calumet works fine.

[jay dougherty]

Are you talking about the Calumet Illuma softboxes? I just ordered one. Will give it a shot.