What is the difference between a soft box and umbrella?

[wan2no]

Hi,

I just wanted to know what is the difference between using the two. I know both softens the light and assist to cast away shadows but what is the difference. As in, which one is better and is one used more because of an ongoing trend.

[zoobie]

http://www.lightingmagic.com/equipumb.htm

[lordsmurf]

Umbrella bounces light, softbox diffuses light.

Better is completely relative to the style of light you want, and the situation you're in. Also the power of the bulbs, distance from the subject, etc. I've used studio lights many times for photography, and video is nothing more than lots of photos in a row. Fundamentals are basically the same.

There are other artificial lighting methods too. Quite a few. Prices are all over the map. From $1,000 rig to a $25 Home Depot DIY rig. I've used them all, and some of my favorite shots from from a DIY.

How well the digital sensor reacts to light is equally important -- they're not all the same in this area.

[edDV]

Soft Box is usually more directionally focused and can be used closer to the subject due to the diffusion filter.