What Modifier Should You Chose?

I just shared this over in the 30-Day OCF Challenge and I know it is an often asked question so I thought I would share it here as well.

I believe that you should chose a modifier that suits your specific lighting needs. You should consider your unique shooting situation/subject/wants before purchasing a modifier. It is way too easy to collect modifiers that you never use! 

I would recommend starting with just a simple umbrella. Use it for a while and then really think about how it is limiting you and the light you want to create. That will help you in deciding what additional modifiers may be a good choice for you.

I shoot mainly still-life and single-person portraits in a studio or outdoor setting. I prefer directional light without a lot of spill (when light is falling all around your subject). 

My favorite modifiers are:

Beauty Dish

The 28" Foldable Beauty Dish with Grid. I love this modifier because it is an excellent size for my subjects and it is also very sturdy for outside use. I rarely take the grid off because I prefer having precise control over where my light falls.

Soft Box

This is a popular and versatile modifier that is known for creating soft, beautiful light.

Softboxes come in a variety of shapes and sizes, these will create different catchlights and quality of light.

You can also purchase additional diffusion panels to soften the light and you can add a grid to control the spill of the light as it falls on your subject and background.                                                          

I have several softboxes of different sizes and shapes. 

I like my Westcott 28x28 softbox with a recessed front and an umbrella shaft. Because the first diffusion panel is set back so far into the box, it really helps with light control and feathering. 

I also like the Westcott 43" Apollo Orb. 

This modifier will give you round catchlights and is large enough for two adults or a few children (sitting close together). I do not use this often for still-life images as it creates a lot of very soft light ( I tend to want more directional light with my florals). It mimics window light very well, especially if you place a rectangular sheet in front of it to give you a more "window-like" catchlight.

This is the light I use for the majority of in-studio people portraits.

If you have questions about what modifier will be right for you I am happy to try and help you choose!

Happy creating!

-Leah