The Paul C Buff Parabolic Light Modification System (PLM) is basically a giant umbrella softbox. It comes in umbrella diameters of 75", 55" and 42". I have the 55" model. This thing is big. Really big. There are 2 models: white translucent and silver. Get the silver model, it has a much higher efficiency rating and will thus put out more light than the white translucent. By putting the white diffusion sheet over the umbrella it essentially creates a giant softbox. Better still, since it's configured as an umbrella, it's a snap to set up. As you can see, even the 55" is huge. It can be used with any brand of flash, even with a speedlight. (correction: might not fit Elinchrom, which uses a proprietary 7mm shaft diameter)
What's the benefit of such a big umbrella-box? - The bigger the light source, the softer the light. Now softer doesn't always mean better - sometimes you want a harder light. But if you're looking for that big, soft, gorgeous, wrap around light you need a big light like this.
- The bigger light source can cover a bigger subject. You can light cars with this thing.
- It will make nice big, round catch-lights in your subject's eyes
Here are a few quick snaps in the front yard, taken at 2pm. Canon 30D w/17-55mm f2.8 EFS, ISO 100, f6.3, 1/250 sec. This metering knocked down the ambient by about 3 stops.
Look at how this giant light source wraps around Theresa!
Now here's the best part. The cost? $80. That may not seem ultra-cheap to you, but consider the alternatives. The comparable modifiers from Elinchrom and Profoto run $1,100 and $1,485 respectively. That's 12x-15x the price of the Paul C Buff product! Remember, you can use the PLM system with any brand of flash. So here's another quiz question. You know me by now so the answer is obvious. What will make a bigger difference to your images, the $80 PLM or an $8,000 1DsMkwhatever? Laurence Kim Workshops Location Lighting 101, Jan 23, Seattle WA: sold out! Building a Profitable Portrait Business, Feb 27, Seattle WA: seats available Location Lighting 101, March 20, Vancouver BC: seats available |
