Godox AD-S65 and AD-S85 Softbox for AD400 Pro Review

Summary

In this video, Robert Holland discusses his new favorite travel-friendly softbox, the Godox AD-S65. While emphasizing the importance of speed, accuracy, and results, he highlights the need for compact gear when traveling for work. The Godox AD-S65 offers a small footprint, making it easy to transport while still delivering excellent lighting quality. Holland explains its compatibility with the Godox 8400 Pro, its design, and the trade-offs, such as the need to remove inner components for collapse. Despite a few minor inconveniences, he recommends it for anyone who values portability and efficient performance.

Takeaways

• 😀 The speaker values speed, accuracy, value, and the quality of results over equipment size when choosing gear.
• 😀 When traveling for work, the speaker focuses on compact, essential equipment to manage hauling gear.
• 😀 The Godox AD S65 softbox is highlighted as an ideal choice for destination weddings due to its compact size and portability.
• 😀 The Godox proprietary mount offers an advantage with its smaller size, making it more portable but less widely compatible than the Bowens mount.
• 😀 The Godox AD S65 softbox comes in two sizes: 26 inches (S65) and 33 inches (S85), both being easy to collapse and pack into a lighting bag.
• 😀 The speaker compares the EZ Lock system of Godox softboxes to the popular Bowens system, noting its smooth opening and closing action despite requiring more effort than other systems.
• 😀 The Godox AD S65 softbox is available worldwide under both the Godox and Adorama (Glow EZ Lock) brands, with the latter rebranding the softboxes for Flashpoint Explorer and Honor Pro flashes.
• 😀 Despite its small size, the Godox AD S65 softbox includes a grid and is capable of fitting into lighting bags even when packed with other gear.
• 😀 The softbox has one major drawback: the compact design restricts the use of certain interior accessories, such as the inner beauty dish plate and inner diffusion.
• 😀 The speaker notes that collapsing the softbox requires removing the outer diffusion fabric and any internal components, which can be annoying for users who frequently collapse and set up the softbox.
• 😀 The Godox AD S65 softbox is recommended for users of the 8400 Pro or anyone needing a compact kit for travel, and it is expected to become more popular with the release of the 8300 Pro.

Q & A

What is the main appeal of the Godox AD-S65 and AD-S85 softboxes?

The main appeal of the Godox AD-S65 and AD-S85 softboxes is their compact size, which makes them ideal for travel photography. They are lightweight and easy to collapse, fitting into smaller lighting bags without sacrificing light quality.

How does the Godox proprietary mount compare to the Bowens mount?

The Godox proprietary mount is smaller and more compact, making it ideal for travel, but it is only compatible with a limited range of Godox lights. In contrast, the Bowens mount is more widely compatible with various brands and modifiers, offering greater versatility and stability.

Which Godox products are compatible with the Godox proprietary mount?

The Godox proprietary mount is found on the AD 8600, 8400 Pro, and the upcoming 8300 Pro, as well as some speedlight products like the V60 version II and the 8200, with the appropriate adapters.

What are the key differences between the Godox AD-S65 and AD-S85 softboxes?

The key difference is the size: the AD-S65 is 26 inches, while the AD-S85 is 33 inches. Both softboxes share similar features but the AD-S85 offers a larger surface area for light diffusion.

Why is the design of the Godox AD-S65 and AD-S85 softboxes considered an advantage?

The design is considered an advantage because it allows for a compact and slim form, making them easy to pack and transport. They are almost as slim as an umbrella when collapsed, making them convenient for photographers who need to minimize gear without sacrificing performance.

What are the limitations of the Godox AD-S65 and AD-S85 softboxes?

A limitation is that their slim design restricts the use of some interior accessories, such as the inner diffusion and beauty dish plates. These elements must be removed when collapsing the softbox, which can be inconvenient if you frequently use them.

How does the EZ Lock system affect the user experience with these softboxes?

The EZ Lock system enhances the user experience by providing a smooth and quick setup. It is easy to assemble and disassemble, ensuring the softboxes are ready for use in minimal time. The system is known for its build quality and durability.

What is the purpose of the mini reflector beauty dish plate in the softboxes?

The mini reflector beauty dish plate is designed to help shape the light within the softbox, providing a different lighting effect. However, the double-sided nature of the plate (with silver, white, gold, and gold-silver sides) can cause some light inconsistencies, which might be a drawback for some users.

How does the Godox proprietary mount affect light efficiency?

The Godox proprietary mount allows the entire bulb of the 8400 Pro to fit directly into the softbox, ensuring no light is wasted. This direct fit helps maintain the efficiency and effectiveness of the light output.

Who would benefit most from using the Godox AD-S65 or AD-S85 softboxes?

Photographers who frequently travel and need to minimize the size of their lighting kit while still maintaining high-quality lighting will benefit the most. These softboxes are particularly suited for users of the Godox 8400 Pro or similar lights who want a compact and portable solution.