An umbrella that can be quickly transformed into a softbox, the 36" SoftLighter Umbrella with Removable 8mm Shaft from Photek is built on a redesigned classic umbrella with a fiberglass frame and white reflective fabric that is free from contaminates that might add an unwanted color cast to your light output.The unique modifier includes a diffuser that fits tightly over the open side of the umbrella and accepts flash heads 7.25" or less in diameter - instant softbox! The combination of the light bouncing off the umbrella and through the diffuser yields a soft, flattering quality of light and since closer is softer, a portion of the shaft is removable so that you can work closer to your subject.The SoftLighter's 10 panel construction (instead of the usual 8) gives the fabric tighter support that results in more controllable output and refined circular catchlights in the eyes of your subjects. The umbrella's black backing is removable allowing you to shoot through the translucent white fabric for snappier contrast. This SoftLighter umbrella ships with a removable 8mm shaft, but an optional 7mm shaft is available for lights that require it.