Cheetahstand

QPB-36 Softbox with Focusing System

$399.00 USD

~~$488.00 USD~~ $399.00 USD

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The Cheetah Stand QPB-36 Deep Parabolic Softbox with Focusing System gives you multiple configurations out of a single softbox by allowing you to alter the shape of the light. The QPB-36 Deep Parabolic Softbox along with the Cheetah Stand Focusing System MKII allows you to mimic multiple softbox sizes in a single softbox.

The Cheetah Stand QPB-36 Deep Parabolic Softbox is constructed with light weight fiberglass rods to ensure maximum durability over our competitors with their metal rods that could break or bend.

The Focusing System is an aluminum rod that slides back and forth with light mounted at the end. This allows for multiple configurations allowing the QPB-36 Deep Parabolic Softbox to produce a hard direct light source, or soft light that envelopes your subject. This is similar to a flashlight where you can control the beam from a spot light to a flood light.

The exterior is a tough, flexible material that is tear-resistant and water-resistant, 2-layers of diffusion, 2x2x2 egg-crate grid and a reflector plate.

Key Features of the QPB-36 Deep Parabolic Softbox with Focusing System

Deep Parabolic structure: Deep Parabolic Structure for incredible shadow and rich lighting
Fiberglass Rods: More durable fiberglass rods help maintain the deep parabolic structure.
Focusing Rod: Unique aluminum focusing rod allows infinite lighting solutions in a single softbox.
Reflector Plate: Help reduces hot-spots
Egg-Crate Grid Included: 2”x2”x2” egg-crate included
Speed-Rings: All Cheetah Stand QPB-36 Deep Parabolic Softboxes and the Focusing System are compatible with the Bowen Speed Ring but can be exchanged with Profoto, Alienbee and Elinchrom Speed Rings.

Dimensions:
Weight (lb.): 5.15
Diameter (point-to-point): 36"
Depth (when expanded): 29"
Folded length: 34"

Includes:
1 QPB-36 Softbox
1 Cheetah Focusing System MKII
1 Carrying bag
1 Front diffuser
1 Inner diffuser
1 Eggcrate Grid
1 Reflector dish

Frequently Asked Questions

QPB-36 Deep Parabolic Softbox with Focusing System FAQ

Question?

Answer

1. What sets it apart as a photography softbox?

At its core, a Deep Parabolic Softbox with Focusing System is a sophisticated light modifier. What truly distinguishes it from standard options in photography softbox gear is its unique, deep parabolic shape combined with an innovative focusing mechanism. This design isn't just about diffusing light; it’s about shaping and directing it with exceptional precision, transforming a single softbox for light into a versatile instrument for creating a myriad of lighting effects, from broad and diffused to highly concentrated and dramatic.

2. How does the Deep Parabolic structure contribute to richer lighting and shadows?

The very essence of the Deep Parabolic structure lies in its ability to funnel and concentrate light, leading to incredible shadow and rich lighting. This unique form ensures a more controlled and directional light throw compared to conventional softboxes. The result is light that sculpts your subject, creating a natural fall-off that adds remarkable depth and dimension to your images. For nuanced portraiture, high-end fashion, and beauty softbox photography, this structural advantage is unparalleled.

3. What makes the fiberglass rods a more durable choice for maintaining the softbox's shape?

The use of more durable fiberglass rods is a critical design choice that helps maintain the deep parabolic structure of our softboxes. Unlike traditional metal rods that can be prone to bending or succumbing to stress fractures over time, fiberglass offers superior flexibility and resilience. This ensures that the precise parabolic shape is consistently maintained, guaranteeing uniform light quality and significantly extending the operational life of your premium photography softbox.

4. What are focusing rods?

The Focusing Rod is the heart of this system, acting as a unique aluminum component that literally unlocks infinite lighting solutions in a single softbox for light. This aluminum rod allows your light source to slide back and forth along its axis. By adjusting the light's position, you can dramatically alter the beam angle, intensity, and quality of the light. Pulling the light closer to the front diffuser creates a softer, broader spread, while moving it deeper into the softbox tightens the beam for more punchy, directional light. This dynamic control is a game-changer for creative softbox photography and light shaping.

5. How does the Reflector Plate ensure a more even light output and reduce hot-spots?

The integrated Reflector Plate plays a crucial role in enhancing the evenness of your light and helping to reduce hot-spots. Hot-spots are concentrated areas of intense brightness caused by the direct exposure of the light source through the diffuser. The strategically placed reflector plate works to redistribute and diffuse this direct light internally, ensuring a much smoother and more consistent illumination across the entire front diffusion panel of your photography softbox, leading to more flattering and professional results. Please note, the Reflector plate is used when the QPB-36 Softbox is used in a traditional softbox role without the focus rod.

6. What is the purpose of the Egg-Crate Grid, and how does it enhance light control?

The Egg-Crate Grid, often referred to as a honeycomb grid, is a fabric accessory that attaches to the front lip of the softbox. Its primary function is to provide precise light control by limiting light spill and narrowing the beam. By confining the light, the grid intensifies contrast and saturation, allowing you to create more dramatic and focused lighting effects. This is invaluable in softbox photography when you need to precisely isolate your subject or control light fall-off on backgrounds. Please note, the Egg-Crate Grid is used when the QPB-36 Softbox is used in a traditional softbox role without the focus rod.

7. Is this Deep Parabolic Softbox practical for both studio and on-location photography?

Absolutely. Our Deep Parabolic Softboxes with Focusing Systems are engineered with portability and quick deployment in mind. Many models feature rapid-open mechanisms for swift setup and breakdown, complemented by robust carrying bags. The inherent lightness and durability of the fiberglass rods also contribute significantly to ease of transport, making this photography softbox an ideal choice for photographers who work in diverse environments.

8. How does the light quality produced by this system compare to a conventional softbox?

The Deep Parabolic Softbox with Focusing System offers a level of light quality that far surpasses conventional softboxes. Thanks to its unique shape and the adjustable light source via the focusing rod, it can produce an extraordinary range of effects. From hard, crisp light with pronounced shadows to incredibly soft, enveloping illumination that renders skin tones beautifully, this system provides unparalleled artistic control in your softbox photography.

9. What are the compatibility considerations for light sources with this Deep Parabolic Softbox?

Designed for versatility, most Deep Parabolic Softboxes with Focusing Systems feature an adaptable speedring mount (commonly Bowens). This ensures broad compatibility with a wide array of studio strobes, powerful LED lights, and continuous light sources. This feature guarantees that your investment in this versatile softbox for light seamlessly integrates with your existing professional lighting equipment.

10. How does the focusing system directly influence the contrast and quality of the light?

The focusing system profoundly impacts the contrast and quality of your light. When the light source is positioned deep within the parabolic structure, the light rays become highly collimated, resulting in a harder, more specular light with distinct, sharp shadows. Conversely, as you move the light outward along the focusing rod, the light spreads more extensively within the softbox, creating a larger effective light source. This yields a softer, more diffused light with gentler, more gradual shadows, offering remarkable control for nuanced photography softbox setups.

11. Why are fiberglass rods a superior choice over metal for the softbox frame?

The advantages of utilizing more durable fiberglass rods for the softbox frame are manifold. Fiberglass is inherently lighter, significantly more flexible, and far less susceptible to permanent deformation or breakage compared to traditional metal alternatives. This ensures that the precise deep parabolic shape is consistently maintained for optimal light shaping, even after countless cycles of assembly and disassembly. Their robust nature also means greater resilience against accidental impacts during transport or use, thereby extending the lifespan of your indispensable softbox for light.

12. For which photographic genres is the Deep Parabolic Softbox particularly well-suited?

While highly adaptable, the Deep Parabolic Softbox with Focusing System truly excels in genres that demand precise light manipulation and exquisite shadow rendition. This includes high-end portraiture, fashion editorials, beauty campaigns, intricate product photography, and fine art projects. Its capacity to generate both dramatic and exceptionally soft light makes it an invaluable asset for a diverse range of creative visions in sophisticated softbox photography.

13. How does the Egg-Crate Grid enhance the directionality and prevent light spill?

The Egg-Crate Grid is engineered to enhance directional control by effectively absorbing and preventing unwanted light spill. By segmenting the light output from the front of the photography softbox, the grid channels the light into a more concentrated, focused beam. This allows photographers to precisely illuminate their subject, minimizing incidental light reaching backgrounds or other areas, thereby enabling more deliberate and impactful lighting designs.

14. What are the best practices for maintaining and caring for this specialized softbox?

Proper maintenance of your Deep Parabolic Softbox with Focusing System is straightforward yet crucial for longevity. Regularly inspect the fiberglass rods for any signs of stress or damage. Ensure the interior silver reflective surface remains clean for optimal light efficiency. The exterior fabric can typically be gently wiped down with a damp cloth. Always store the softbox properly in its dedicated carrying bag to protect it from dust, dirt, and physical damage, ensuring consistent performance for all your softbox photography needs.

15. Why is this Deep Parabolic Softbox with Focusing System a worthwhile investment for serious photographers?

Investing in a Deep Parabolic Softbox with Focusing System represents a significant leap in your lighting capabilities. The synergy of the Deep Parabolic structure for exceptional light quality, more durable fiberglass rods for lasting reliability, the innovative Focusing Rod for unparalleled light shaping, the Reflector Plate to eliminate hot-spots, and the Egg-Crate Grid for precise control, culminates in a single modifier that delivers an extraordinary range of sophisticated lighting effects. For photographers dedicated to mastering their craft and producing images with profound impact, this advanced photography softbox is an indispensable and transformative tool.