How does an octobox differ from a rectangular softbox?

Question

Octoboxes and more-typical rectangular softboxes appear to have similar structure and function. How do they differ, and when would you use one over the other?

Asked by Craig Walker

Answer

An octabox will give you nice round catchlights and produce generally more natural looking highlights and reflections. The straight edge of a softbox often sticks out when shooting with reflective surfaces more than a more organic curve or circle.

On the other hand softboxes are easier to mask and gobo due to the straight edges, and more suitable to certain technical lighting styles (e.g. for product photography where you want lights parallel to certain surfaces or at an angle to 'feather' the light). They are often cheaper, and easier to set up and tear down.

You can't go too far wrong with either, I prefer boxes in small sizes for simplicity / control and octas in large sizes for a natural light look and inconspicuous reflections.

Answered by Matt Grum

Check more discussion of this question.