Softboxes and Light Modifiers for Clip-On Flashes
A bare clip-on flash produces harsh light with sharp shadows. Placing a softbox in front of it changes that immediately—and it doesn’t cost much. Here you’ll find softboxes, light modifier sets, and flash mounts for Godox clip-on flashes, ranging from small clip-on diffusers to foldable boxes for tripods.
Soft Light from a Clip-On Flash
There’s a simple rule: The larger the light source relative to the subject and the closer it is, the softer the light. The bare flash head is about the size of a matchbox, which is exactly why its shadows are so harsh.
On the flash or on a tripod
Small clip-on diffusers and kits like the AK-R1 attach directly to the flash head and can be set up in seconds. They noticeably soften the light and also include honeycomb grids, color gels, and a reflector to direct the light. Because the surface area remains small, the effect is limited: it improves the light, but doesn’t make it soft.
The light only becomes truly soft with a real softbox measuring 40 cm or larger. This should be mounted on a light stand; the flash attaches via a bracket with a softbox mount and is triggered by a radio trigger. This gives you a full-fledged portrait lighting setup for very little money that fits in any bag.
Don’t forget the mount
The most commonly forgotten part: the flash and softbox need a connector. A Speedlite mount holds the flash, has a softbox mount, and screws onto the stand. Look for a model with a sturdy joint that won’t sag even with the softbox attached. For larger softboxes with a Bowens mount, there are adapters that allow you to attach the clip-on flash to the studio mount.
Size and Shape
Up to 60 cm, everything remains portable and is sufficient for a portrait up to a half-length shot. Beyond that, the light becomes softer, but the setup becomes more susceptible to wind; outdoors, a counterweight is then required on the tripod. Round softboxes create a round reflection in the eye, while rectangular ones create an elongated one. You can find larger sizes for studio use under Softboxes.
























