Umbrella or Softbox for 580exII

[Gary.D]

Hi Guys,
I shoot 95% of my work with natural light, but last year I purchased some off camera flash equipment, TTL cord, umbrella's and light stands. I am now looking at 24" softboxes on eBay for around £30 and im wondering how much better the softboxes are then my umbrella.
Thanks

 

[kokakaste2]

with softbox you get more control over the light spill. having both is a good idea.

 

[Gary.D]

with softbox you get more control over the light spill. having both is a good idea.

The softbox will be much more of a direct light yes?
Meaning it would be great outside to light a subject.

 

[kokakaste2]

depending on the size it will suck up more light (if that actually makes sense). used to have westcott apollo 28", it had more directional light (due to recessed front) than shoot through umbrella but it sucked up 1 stop of light.

 

[Gary.D]

depending on the size it will suck up more light (if that actually makes sense). used to have westcott apollo 28", it had more directional light (due to recessed front) than shoot through umbrella but it sucked up 1 stop of light.

Ok thanks for your comments.