The CFL Softbox
Photo from Indie4K
I think this is awesome. And now I want to make one. So I think I’m going to try.
The people at Indie4k created a softbox using five compact fluorescent bulbs. The kind that are color-balanced to match natural daylight (or about 5000K).
I’ve been using CFL bulbs to light almost all of my projects in the past year and it’s worked out well for me. The reduced heat output is reason enough to make the switch, not to mention the power-consumption benefits. I’ve even tried to make my own softboxes using the bulbs, but haven’t had great results.
At one point I tried using a single 120w-equivalent bulb with a cut-up t-shirt stretched over a picture frame that was precariously attached to a couple of clamps. This worked for a little while, but was pretty unsightly. It also had a tendency to fall apart when I tried to store it.
What the Indie4k people have done is made something that is not just practical, but nice looking; an accomplishment that’s especially rare for DIY projects. I realize that having good-looking gear may seem like a completely asinine thing to worry about, but there’s definitely a lot to be said for great design.
Being able to take pride in your work — and what you’re working with — is something I believe a lot of people can relate to.
Anyway, check out their post. Maybe soon I’ll be able to post pictures of my very own CFL softbox. Here’s hoping that I don’t electrocute myself in the process.