How to Use a 37" Octagon Honeycomb Grid Softbox

By ephotoinc | Published: 2026-10-27

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to set up and use a 37" octagon honeycomb grid softbox with flash mounting for portraits and product photography. Step-by-step guide with common mistakes to avoid.

Quick answer

To use a 37" octagon honeycomb grid softbox, mount the speed ring to your flash, attach the softbox, install the honeycomb grid for directional control, and position it close to your subject for soft, even light with reduced spill.

Why choose a 37" octagon with honeycomb grid?

The 37-inch size is large enough to produce soft, wrapping light for head-and-shoulders portraits, yet compact enough for small studio spaces. The octagon shape creates round catchlights in eyes, which many photographers prefer over square or rectangular softboxes. Adding the honeycomb grid narrows the beam spread, giving you more control over light falloff and preventing spill onto backgrounds or other subjects.

What to watch for during setup

The included speed ring is designed for Bowens-mount studio flashes, but the package also includes a flash bracket to fit standard speedlights. Make sure you use the correct adapter for your flash type—forcing a mismatch can damage both the softbox and the flash. The four steel rods are sturdy but require gentle handling when collapsing the softbox; always fold them in the sequence shown in the manual to avoid bending.

Step-by-step setup and use

1. Assemble the softbox frame: Insert the four steel rods into the speed ring, then attach the softbox fabric by sliding the rod tips into the corner pockets. Common mistake: rushing this step can cause rods to pop out—work slowly and seat each rod fully before moving to the next. Check that all rods are fully seated before attaching the front diffuser.
2. Install the internal baffle and front diffuser: Place the internal baffle (the smaller white panel) inside the softbox, then attach the white translucent front screen using the Velcro strips. Common mistake: forgetting the internal baffle results in harsh, uneven light—always use it for the softest output. The baffle softens light; the front screen controls spread. Use both for portraits.
3. Attach the honeycomb grid (optional): If you want directional light with less spill, attach the removable honeycomb grid over the front screen using the provided Velcro. Common mistake: using the grid when you need broad fill light—save it for key lighting or background separation. The grid reduces beam angle by roughly 30–40°, giving you more control over light falloff.
4. Mount the flash: Attach the speed ring to your studio strobe or use the included flash bracket for speedlights. Tighten the locking screw firmly. Common mistake: leaving the screw loose can cause the flash to tilt or fall—double-check before raising the stand. Use the correct adapter for your flash type to avoid damage.
5. Position and adjust: Place the softbox 2–4 feet from your subject for soft shadows. Angle it 45° above eye level for classic portrait lighting. Common mistake: placing the softbox too far away (over 6 feet) makes the light harder and reduces the softbox's advantage. Closer = softer light; farther = harder light with more contrast.

Product facts

37" Octagon Honeycomb Grid Softbox with Flash Mounting for Nikon Canon LBW895GD: Includes one speed ring, one flash bracket for speedlights, removable honeycomb grid, internal baffle, and white translucent front screen. You can use this softbox with both studio strobes and portable speedlights without buying extra adapters, and the grid gives you two light-shaping options in one modifier.
37" Octagon Honeycomb Grid Softbox with Flash Mounting for Nikon Canon LBW895GD