Lighting / Learn by doing
Stripbox explained simply
What is โStripboxโ?
A long, narrow softbox useful for controlling an elongated highlight or rim light.
- 01Long narrow source
- 02Tall highlight
- 03Check coverage
How do you use Stripbox practically?
A small exercise
Light a bottle from one side with a stripbox and rotate it until the reflected highlight shows the bottle’s shape.
- Make a starting version and keep it so you can compare fairly.
- Try the change in the exercise. Keep unrelated choices steady where the exercise allows.
- Compare the result at the size your viewer will actually see. Write down what changed and whether it helped.
How does Stripbox solve a problem?
It helps create a controlled bright line on a product or along a person’s edge.
What can go wrong?
A narrow source can miss part of a tall subject. Check the full frame for uneven illumination.
How do you turn the idea into a useful solution?
Start with the specific problem in your image or brief, try the exercise, and keep the version that meets that need. If the result is worse, return to the starting version and change one choice at a time.
Quick check: can you explain the three ideas in the diagram?
Long narrow source โ Tall highlight โ Check coverage. Explain how each relates to the exercise. Then compare the starting version with your result and choose the one that meets your brief.
Related video lesson
Softbox introduction โ Profoto
This related lesson gives wider context for the topic. Camera menus and software versions may differ from yours.
Loading the player connects to YouTube. You can also watch the lesson on YouTube.Keep exploring
Try the idea in a studio shoot
Planning a portrait or product session? Use the glossary with our practical shoot guides, then check the studio facilities and send your confirmed requirements with an availability enquiry.