Umbrella Size

johnbergsing · May 2, 2009

Hi all! Brand new here. I have a question regarding umbrella size.

I am wondering what the pros and cons are of using larger umbrellas (60") over smaller umbrellas (32")?

Thanks in advance!

JerryPH · May 2, 2009

Of course the larger the umbrella, the larger the area you are lighting, but I would say it mostly depends on what your light source is.

If you are using battery powered flashes, the smaller umbrellas will give you stronger more usable light, but a smaller area is lit. I don't go above 45" for myself but that is mostly becuase when shooting indoors they are not too intrusive, easier to work with and light smaller areas, which is what I want.

If you are using 110 (or 220 if in Europe), the strobes are generally a lot more powerful and you can get away with a larger umbrellas, but even then, do you notice that even with the high end strobes, companies are including only smaller umbrellas with their kits? I'm talking 32-45 inches maximum.

In the end, it depends on your needs and desires. If you use a little common sense, the above becomes quite clear as to what is the right choice for you.

johnbergsing · May 2, 2009

JerryPH said:
Of course the larger the umbrella, the larger the area you are lighting, but I would say it mostly depends on what your light source is.

If you are using battery powered flashes, the smaller umbrellas will give you stronger more usable light, but a smaller area is lit. I don't go above 45" for myself but that is mostly becuase when shooting indoors they are not too intrusive, easier to work with and light smaller areas, which is what I want.

If you are using 110 (or 220 if in Europe), the strobes are generally a lot more powerful and you can get away with a larger umbrellas, but even then, do you notice that even with the high end strobes, companies are including only smaller umbrellas with their kits? I'm talking 32-45 inches maximum.

In the end, it depends on your needs and desires. If you use a little common sense, the above becomes quite clear as to what is the right choice for you.

Thanks, and good point. So let me ask you this: For general portrait work, including multiple subjects, and using a B800, would you choose a 48" or 60" shoot thru?