Lastolite very kindly sent across a range of their Ezybox II softboxes to try out: the Ezybox II Octa, Ezybox II Switch and the Ezybox II Square, which can all be found on their website here.
We were sent the Ezybox II Speedlite bracket to connect with the softboxes but they can be used with both studio heads and speedlights, making them a very versatile modifier. The company provides a simple guide to help you identify the right connector.
Ezybox II Speedlite Bracket
The Ezybox II Speedlite bracket is a surprisingly solid and stable mount, even when attached to the Ezybox II Octa. The design feels overly complicated, however, and is not a convenient size to transport once assembled and does not pack down easily, although it does come with a bag to keep the parts together.
The bracket does cater for a lot though, as it has room for two flashes [cold shoe], an umbrella and the space to house a trigger at the back. With all of those in place attaching or changing the softbox is not the easiest of tasks and I would not recommend changing softbox in a time pressured situation.
In use I had no problems with the bracket when attached, it was very easy to change the angle or access the speedlights. I like the possibilities of the interchangeable connectors to be able to use the same softbox inside the studio with a studio head or on location with a speedlight.
Ezybox II
As with other Lastolite Ezybox II softboxes, assembly is not too dissimilar to that of a tent, especially in the case of the Ezybox II Octa! The design is different from the normal softbox, with pop up panels and the poles are fastened on the outside. In the case of the Square and the Switch, two side panels and a pole top and bottom to separate the panels , the Octa has four panels and four poles to separate them. In addition the Switch also comes with additional diffusion panels and poles to enlarge the softbox, which is not ideal, however, the versatility is very useful. The mount fastening at the back is very easy to attach and is surprisingly secure once assembled.
They also all have an internal and an external diffusion panel. Whilst the internal diffusion panel seems to have been added as an afterthought — with the Velcro not matching up to its internal counterpart — the outer sheet fits beautifully and the double-sided Velcro facilitates easy attachment.
It folds down in the same way as a popup reflector so if you are already familiar with the twist and fold technique you will have no problems. Please refer to our previous article which includes the features in detail also with a video.
The Ezybox II softboxes are smart, durable and most importantly are a very effective light modifier. I used the Ezyboxes II in a number of other shoots and was very happy with the final outcomes. They may take more time to set up, but I am sure with regular use that would improve, the light weight structure and versatility make them a very effective modifier.
Available now, you can buy the Ezybox II series from Amazon UK
Konrad S Leader is a professional photographer based in Middlesbrough, UK. View more of his work here.