Protect your lighting equipment by turning it off and packing it up safely.
Light diffusers are commonly used in studio product photography and professional portraiture to soften output from a standing light or flash gun. A common type of diffuser is the softbox, which is a tent-like attachment with a reflective lining. A diffusing filter, which is threaded over a camera lens, helps smooth hard edges in the resulting image. Both pieces of equipment are delicate and should be treated with special care. The diffusion effect can also be stopped by removing the softbox or filter during a shoot.
Instructions
Stopping and Removing a Softbox
1. Switch off and unplug the standing light that the softbox is mounted to. If it is attached to a flash gun, turn the off the power.
2. Allow the standing light to cool for at least 10 minutes. During a shoot, both the lamp housing and the softbox can become very hot.
3. Locate the four connecting rods which secure the softbox to the corners of the mounting ring on the front of the light.
4. Apply downward pressure to one of the rods until it begins to bow slightly. Pull the rod out from its mounting hole. Repeat for the three remaining rods.
5. Fold up the softbox so that all the rods are bundled together and face the same direction. Place the softbox in its protective sleeve.
Removing a Diffusing Filter
6. Turn off your camera.
7. Locate the diffusing filter mounted at the front of the lens. You will be able to identify the filter using the script printed on its outside edge, which usually includes the manufacturer's name and thread size.
8. Grasp the outside edge of the filter and rotate it counterclockwise.
9. Continue turning the filter until it comes away from the lens. Store it in a soft carrying pouch or hard-cased tin for protection.
Tags: standing light, outside edge