What Soft box to buy in 2024- Aputure vs Nanlite

In this video I'll compare 4 different soft boxes. This video will help you make the right choice if you're considering one of these soft boxes. I really think the Aputure SE is the right choice for most people who are starting out in their lighting journey. The SE is the best choice if you want to save money. It's also the best travel friendly soft box. If you need a larger soft box you should consider the "Lightdome iii". It has the most advanced design allowing you to quickly set up and not fuss with the rods that come with the "LightDome SE". The "Nanlite 90" should be considered if you want a larger soft box. The Nanlite grid is a bit larger than the aputure grids so the "Directional effect" isn't as strong with the Nanlite. I prefer the smaller squares of the aputure grid. Finally the "SunPower Pluto" Beauty dish soft box is a very unique design and look. Because of the beauty dish you'll technically lose light output but the effect is beautiful. If you're also a "beauty portrait" photographer you might consider this option.
Below you will find affiliate links that would give me a small kickback on purchases. Please consider using these links to support our channel.
Aputure Amaran 300c
amzn.to/3UoW9iP
Aputure Amaran 150c
amzn.to/4bjpPnK
Lightdome SE
amzn.to/3SiuzBa
Lightdome iii
amzn.to/3SCGSJT
Nanlite 90 Parabolic
amzn.to/3w2Y4PS
*My Studio Gear:*
Camera- Sony a7siii
amzn.to/4a7UO55
Lens- Sony 16-35 f2.8 GM
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Lens Filter- Tiffen Black Pro Mist 1/8
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Variable ND filters Polar Pro Peter McKinnon
2-5 stops- amzn.to/3xkAGhn
6-9 stops- amzn.to/49ftwsj
Mini Tripod- Leofoto MT-03
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Cheaper Sony camera option
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Fujifilm XS20
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My studio mic
Deity VO-7U amzn.to/3Ps2YwN
My Studio lights
Aputure F21c amzn.to/3VBexWd
Aputure PT2c amzn.to/3IZG6ks
Aputure MC Pro amzn.to/4ci0QBE
Zhiyun C100 amzn.to/48XKRFY
Zhiyun G200 amzn.to/49eQrEd
Zhiyun G60 amzn.to/3TFxENx
*Rigging Gear:*
VariPole
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C-Stand
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Cheaper C-Stand
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[@sergeys1660]

What do you think about NEEWER 35.4"/90cm Parabolic Softbox compared to LightDome SE. I am stuck with my choice.

[@mitchellglick8737]

@codylander Wonderful video Cody. I just bought the Light Dome III after watching it and I had a question. I’m using it with the Amaran 200XS. Shooting with a Canon R5 in manual mode. Are you shooting typically at a high ISO in the studio and then using a small amount of power from the key light, or vice versa?

[@enditend2]

great video very helpful

[@joeypandabear]

Love this!!! So informative. I need this video so much

[@MrKlein17]

Hello. Thanks for the information and taking the time to compare. Do you know if the aputure dome 3 or SE fits nanlite lights?

[@nandhukr331]

Using beauty dish cause any problem for the light...? Like over heat or burn the led....?

[@tkay4401]

Great video. Very easy to see what they each do. And, I like the cat (visible at

[@andreybenassi]

9:34

[@evanthecameraman]

I really want to like Nanlite more simply because I like that they are keeping the big brands competitive and on their toes. Aputure is a great brand and has a great ecosystem and app. Nanlite has some really unique offerings as well and seems to play nice with mixing brands with theirs. The only Aputure lights I have to have with me at all times is the LS60x which has a very slick spotlight adjustment built-in. It's so clutch!

[@joshuaolunoiki5341]

Great content,