Westcott Speeds Up Setup of Foldable Rapid Box Switch Softboxes
Westcott has updated its foldable Rapid Box Switch softboxes: they open in a second, fold down compactly and come with a grid and Bowens adapter.
The updated Rapid Box Switch softboxes open and fold down in about a second, taking up minimal space. The lineup includes nine sizes; each comes with a Bowens adapter, diffusers, a grid and a carrying case.
Westcott Updates Its Foldable Rapid Box Switch Softboxes
Westcott has introduced a redesigned Rapid Box Switch Fold-Flat lineup. The design is made for photographers who need to transport lighting equipment compactly and get it ready to use quickly without compromising light quality.
The softboxes open to full size in about one second. They fold down just as quickly: when packed, they take up little space and have what the company describes as an “ultra-flat profile.” This makes it easier to pack the modifiers in bags and stow them alongside other equipment.
The series includes nine options: 2-, 3- and 4-foot octaboxes; 2 × 3, 3 × 3 and 3 × 4-foot softboxes; and 1 × 3, 1 × 4 and 1 × 6-foot stripboxes.
Each softbox comes with a Bowens Switch Insert adapter, inner and outer diffusers, a 55-degree grid and a carrying case. Grids control light spill and are usually sold separately, so including one as standard adds value to the kit.
Westcott has also redesigned the mount for Switch Insert adapters. The metal adapter slides into a built-in channel and locks into place; a sliding mechanism makes it quick to remove. According to the company, the new design speeds up setup and makes it easier to switch lighting systems.
The included Bowens adapter is compatible with many popular lights, including the Westcott FJ800, FJ400 Series, FJ250 and L120-B. Previously released Switch Inserts also work with the new lineup. Adapters for various studio strobes, speedlights and continuous LED lights are available separately.
The softboxes have a silver reflective interior that helps increase light output. The inner and outer diffusers have a neutral tint and soften the light before it reaches the subject. Westcott says this two-layer diffusion delivers natural-looking skin tones, accurate colors and consistent results in both photography and video.
Westcott President Brandon Heiss noted that since launching the first Rapid Box in 2013, the company has aimed to help photographers get ready to shoot faster, transport their equipment more easily and create high-quality light. He said the new model is the fastest-opening and most compact softbox Westcott has ever made, and called the included Bowens adapter and grid the company’s best offering to date.
The entire updated Rapid Box Switch lineup is available on the FJWestcott website.
