Softboxes

[Johnboy2978]

I was thinking of getting a softbox to accompany my Alienbee 800 strobe. Which is better to get for portraits the rectangular or octogonal and why? Also how much does a softbox reduce the output of the strobe? About half?

 

[Tyson]

"""~Build a man a fire and you keep him warm for the night, set the man on fire and you'll keep him warm for the rest of his life~""

I am a fireman and I agree with your statment!

 

[fmw]

Which is better to get for portraits the rectangular or octogonal and why?

The shape doesn't matter. What matters is the surface area and the distance the thing is from the subject.

Also how much does a softbox reduce the output of the strobe? About half?

There are many factors making it impossible to state generalities. Perhaps it is easier just to say that they are more efficient than umbrellas. The manufacturer might be able to give you some guidelines.

 

[Mad_Gnome]

The only real difference between the standard rectangular softbox and the AlienBees octaboxes is the shape of the catchlight. Since most people besides photographers will never notice the difference, it's really more of a personal preference.