Softboxes versus Umbrellas

[RTMiller]

Question for all of you Studio photographers...
What are the fundememntal differences between softboxes and umbrellas? Do you use one or the other to create a certain lighting effect?

[PhotosGuy]

If they are the same size, I'd prefer a soft box 'cause you can get it closer & it gives a rectangular highlight.

[Headcase650]

One big difference is light spill. An umbrella will throw light every where, mostly to the subject but also to the ceiling, the floor, the walls, and all that light bounces everywhere unless your studio is painted flat black. A box allows more control and the spred is narower than that of an umbrella. A box can light up a small area of the shot leaving the rest dim if desired, large umbrells can be used to light up everything.

I use two 45 inch silver umbrellas left and right of subject and a small soft box above on a boom.

Check out the Show us your studio in the F.M. message board on lighting.
You will be amazed at what can be done with very little equipment and see some incredable full blown studio set ups.