Paul C. Buff, Inc. Technical Forum

Hello all,
I was curious what most of you use with an AB800 for your outdoor portrait shoots as far as a light modifier. I currently have the large softbox, but what was wondering what others like to use. Thanks.

It's an individual choice, and is dependent on a few factors: The power of the light (in this case 320ws AB800), wind, subject distance, the quality of light that you desire, atmospheric conditions (Full Sun, cloudy, overcast, sunrise/sunset, shade, etc), what aperture you want to shoot at.

All things considered I often use the silver 22HOBD (bare, socked, or gridded) because it handles better in the wind, and it is very efficient, although sometimes I use a 36" octa, and if it's calm, I've used a 60" octa.

A beauty dish is popular, and is my personal default. I have used 42, 51, and 64" PLM's, our old brolly boxes, and smaller softboxes. I have also used a variety of small reflectors with grids and barndoors as accent lights.

Obviously, wind is an issue, so choose accordingly and sandbag/weight your stands.