Chimera Super Pro Plus XXS Softbox Review
The job of the Chimera Super Pro Plus XXS Softbox is to create soft light.
The Chimera Super Pro Plus XXS Softbox is composed of a black fabric exterior, 2 translucent white baffles
(one inside, one on the front), a white interior and
four flexible metal rods to create the frame.
Using the Chimera Super Pro Plus XXS Softbox requires a
Chimera Speedring
(or similar device) to attach the frame rods to - creating the semi-rigid frame.
The back of the Chimera Super Pro Plus XXS Softbox utilizes Velcro to close the back of the softbox
around the speedring and flash.
The advantage of using a softbox over an umbrella (such as the
Photogenic Eclipse Umbrella)
is that the light is more even, smooth and controlled.
The veins and un-even underside of the umbrella are not reflected from the subject
when using a softbox.
A downside to the softbox setup is that it costs significantly
more than an umbrella of the same size.
The Chimera Super Pro Plus XXS Softbox directly competes with some other manufacturers such as Photoflex.
I choose the Chimera Super Pro Plus XXS Softbox based on reputation (recommendations from others)
and the size and features this model provided.
Chimera has several models that would have worked for my purpose as well.
The other models omitted some features such as the double and
removeable diffusion layers.
I am pleased with my Chimera Super Pro Plus XXS Softbox and how it functions.
There is not much to get excited about (for me) with a small softbox,
but the results are excellent.
Because of the Chimera Super Pro Plus XXS Softbox's XXS size (12" x 16"),
it works best for macro photography lighting and
small object photos.
It will also work well for portrait photography if the subject is not too far away
or if a very powerful strobe is used.
When used with a
Canon 550EX E-TTL Speedlite Flash,
The subject must be relatively close if f16 at ISO 100 is to be utilized.
The Canon 550EX, although powerful, is not able to light a subject very far away at a narrow aperature opening
with a slow ISO setting.
Opening the lens up will produce better results.
Be sure to read the Chimera Speedring review
to get a more complete idea of how the Chimera Super Pro Plus XXS Softbox functions.
Chimera Super Pro Plus XXS Softbox Sample Pictures ...
Recommended Shopping Resources
(Using these links to make your purchase supports this site)
Chimera Super Pro Plus XXS Softbox at B&H Photo
Chimera Super Pro Plus XXS Softbox at Adorama
Find the best price on the Chimera Super Pro Plus XXS Softbox
