An umbrella that can be quickly transformed into a softbox, the 46"Photek SoftLighter Umbrella with Removable Shafts (46")from Photek SoftLighter Umbrella with Removable Shafts (46")is built on a redesigned classic umbrella with a fiberglass frame and white reflective fabric that is free from contaminates that might add an unwanted color cast to your light output. The unique modifier includes a diffuser that fits tightly over the open side of the umbrella and accepts flash heads 7.25" or less in diameter - instant softbox! The combination of the light bouncing off the umbrella and through the diffuser yields a soft, flattering quality of light and since closer is softer, a portion of the shaft is removable so that you can work closer to your subject.

The SoftLighter's 10 panel construction (instead of the usual 8) gives the fabric tighter support that results in more controllable output and refined circular catchlights in the eyes of your subjects. The umbrella's black backing is removable allowing you to shoot through the translucent white fabric for snappier contrast. This SoftLighter umbrella ships with a removable 7mm shaft for lights that require it, but an 8mm shaft is also included to give options to the user.

Diffuser Turns Umbrella into a Softbox    Fiberglass Frame    10 Panels Instead of 8    Removable Black Backing    Color Correct Fabric

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. How to mount a speed light to go inside while angling both umbrella and flash?

A: This is true, I have the same set up. However with my Canon Speedlite I have to push the sock over the flash and this causes strain on the umbrella metal wires inside. Now my 36" umbrella is 31" and less shallow in depth. This is Because the umbrella shaft opening on the umbrella adapter (under the cold shoe) is too far down from the top of the speedlite. Hence the stretching of the sock. This problem could be fixed if my umbrella adapter had an opening for the umbrella shaft under the umbrella adapter pivot point so I could tilt the spedlite straight in.

Q: 2. How does the reflector attach inside?

A: The reflector panels included with this umbrella slip under the inner ribs in the center.

Q: 3. Will this work with the Interfit Honey Badger, which has a flange?

A: While you can use the umbrella with the Honey Badger monolight, the diffusion cover will not fit the outer flange of this light.

Q: 4. How are these measured, across the front from one tip across to another? Or are they measured across the back which includes the arc of the umbrella, like the Impact umbrellas are measured?

A: It measures 46" across the front tip to tip.

Q: 5. The main shaft at the umbrella 7mm? Included is a removable shaft 8mm?

A: The part of the shaft closest to the umbrella is 8mm. The other half can be 8mm or 7mm, as they give you both sizes that screw on/off. The ridiculous thing is that you can only put a head which needs 7mm half way up the shaft until you hit the 8mm section. In many cases not even close enough to go inside the diffusion panel. SO, if you need an 8mm shaft, this is a beautiful umbrella. If you need a 7mm shaft, I would not recommend this at all, particularly for the price. Photo really dropped the ball on this BS design. They should just have one version that is natively 7mm all the way up and one that is 8mm. What a dumb mistake.

Q: 6. will this work with a speedlight?

A: While this umbrella can work with a speed light, there is an alternate diffuser such as the Photek Hot Shoe Diffuser Kit w/o Umbrella (46") B&H # PHHSD5000, which has a shallower opening. https://bhpho.to/2LdXa7X

Q: 7. Is this compatible with the Paul C Buff Einstein?

A: The 7 reflector sold by Buff is the best. There are two designs, one like a cone, one like a bowl. Either one will work.

Q: 8. Is the 8mm removable SHAFT fiberglass? Or only the umbrella frame?

A: The shaft is metal!

Q: 9. I have a Godox AD600 strobe. Do I need a certain reflector to use with this modifier?

A: You do not need a certain reflector. You will get good results from the AD600 if you use it barebulb.

Q: 10. Will this SoftLighter work well with a Godox AD200?

A: Yes they work together