New Softbox Modification
Jul 17, 2014 16:54:53 #
Here is my latest illumination modification. I have a 6x8-inch softbox. It kept wanting to fold-up when on the speedlight. Other photographers have used carbon-fiber rods to alleviate this issue. They were a bit pricey IMHO, so I went to the Hobby Lobby store that just opened around here & got a pack of 100-each 8-inch bamboo skewers for $2. I cut then down to fit & then on the softbox, where the seams were stitched, I made a small cut, just big enough to allow me to insert the skewer. In the pictures, you see the pack of skewers with one cut to size, the softbox with one of the cut down skewers partially removed from where I placed them & the camera set up with the softbox attached to the speedlight. Note, the camera isn't sitting flat as I have a "Spider" holster plate attached to it.
Jul 17, 2014 17:17:35 #
Jul 18, 2014 02:11:17 #
This was my initial idea too. After about ten minutes of searching I gave up and grabbed my cable cutters and cut apart two old metal clothes hangers and used the metal rods to create rigid sides of my softbox. My softbox had small openings so I did not have to cut the material, but while cutting the hanger I must have left a sharp edge, because after about two hours of shooting the rod created an exit hole up by the front of the diffuser. I removed the rods, took a file to the ends and wrapped a layer of super 33 electrical tape around the ends to help protect the fabric of my softbox.
Jul 18, 2014 03:26:29 #
Jul 18, 2014 11:48:49 #
Very neat. I hadn't thought of doing it that way. Now you have enough sticks for all round Georgia or you have to find a use for the other 96.
Jul 18, 2014 13:29:11 #
Thanks, Scott for this post. I have been trying to solve this problem and can't wait to give this a try.
Jul 23, 2014 11:23:43 #
Just an update. I have changed my rod positions to the seams at the edges as Scott has in his photo above. It is much neater and as the rods are so firm they are unlikely to become loose and they do not interfere with the velcro diffuser. I am hoping it will be just as efficient.
Jul 23, 2014 11:27:25 #
I've used some of the other skewers in some other softboxes I have (8" round & a smaller rectangular one)... As for the other skewers, I will likely give them to members of the local photo club who bought softboxes on my recommendation...
Jul 23, 2014 11:30:49 #
I like the seam idea but, I think having them on the side, makes the box expand a bit better. I think I will incorporate both methods ;) :D
Jul 23, 2014 11:32:54 #
Screamin Scott wrote:
Also you could make some kebabs and barbecue them. Don't forget to soak the skewers first to stop them burning and sticking.I've used some of the other skewers in some other softboxes I have (8" round & a smaller rectangular one)... As for the other skewers, I will likely give them to members of the local photo club who bought softboxes on my recommendation...
Jul 23, 2014 11:35:49 #
Flyextreme wrote:
Yes, doing both may be an idea.I like the seam idea but, I think having them on the side, makes the box expand a bit better. I think I will incorporate both methods ;) :D
Jul 23, 2014 11:35:59 #
8" is too short... I have some 12" skewers for BBQ'ing
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