Paul C. Buff, Inc. Technical Forum

I just acquired a White Lightning x800 and x1600 and looking to accessorize. I am trying to decide between the Octabox or the PLM Umbrella. I will be mainly using it for studio work of dogs and dogs with their humans. Originally, I was leaning towards the 35" Octabox and possibly getting a grid to go with it but wanted to ask for any opinions on the two. Thank you

If you get a Soft Silver PLM with a white front diffusion fabric (WFDF), then that and the octabox are going to be very similar, with the PLM being more circular. The octabox can then be gridded for a tighter light pattern, but maintain a soft diffused light. The PLM cannot be gridded, but the WFDF can be removed for a tighter beam spread, but with more contrast and specular highlights.

I personally like the Soft Silver PLM due to its versatility, and the look the Soft Silver fabric gives.

Thank you, Which size umbrella would you suggest for studio portraits and the on axis or umbrella mount? Most likely not in a big space

64" soft silver 8mm shaft version. Very simple, very nice shadows, and just the right size for most work. Pair it with a white diffuser, and you have an exceptionally diverse modifier for different types fo looks.