The panels, added to an existing softbox, block out the light in the center, allowing light to only pass through at the edges. Placed behind the subject, they’ll create a rim of light around only the edges of the subject, like this backlit car.
The rim lighting effect highlights the subject’s shape, making it a unique lighting pattern to use for portraits, classic cars, and more. With the lighting pattern separating the subject from the background, the edge light technique is also often used with a second fill light for a less dramatic effect.
The edge mask panels are designed to temporarily replace the traditional all-white diffuser. Since the special effect has limited uses, the panels are easily swapped out.
The panels are available in a range of sizes from 35 x 60 cm to 120 x 180 cm.
The question is whether the convenience and professional look is worth the cost, with the different sizes ranging in price from $54 to $113. A roll of gaffer’s tape costs $6, but unless you pick up a second similarly priced diffusion panel, you’ll be doing a lot of re-taping to achieve the effect more than once.
Broncolor also introduced a new 110 cm parabolic umbrella, a quick method for adjusting the focus of the light for a parabolic effect. The new umbrella is priced at $120.
