ZHIYUN Lantern Softbox 85cm with Bowens Mount — Universal 360° Light Diffuser for ZHIYUN X60 / CX100 / G60 / X100 / G200 / G300
Product description
What it is and what it solves
The ZHIYUN Lantern Softbox 85cm with Bowens Mount is a large, umbrella-shaped diffuser designed for Bowens-mount video lights. Its generous 85 cm diameter aims to soften and spread light evenly, helping to reduce harsh shadows on set. It’s pitched as a universal accessory for light sources equipped with Bowens mounts, including popular ZHIYUN models such as the X60, CX100, G60, X100, G200 and G300. If you’re shooting video or scenarios that benefit from broad, wraparound light, this softbox could be a practical addition to your kit.
How it works in practice
The lantern design provides a 360° light diffusion, which translates to a smoother field of illumination around your subject. In real-world use this tends to soften faces and reduce contrast, making it useful for interviews, run-and-gun tutorials, or product demos where a large, flattering fill light is preferable to multiple small sources.
What stands out
On the paper approach, the size stands out: 85 cm is sizeable enough to create a soft, even wrap of light, which can minimise hotspots compared with smaller modifiers. The Bowens mount compatibility broadens the potential light sources you can pair with it, including the range of ZHIYUN lights mentioned. For setups where a single, diffuse key or fill is desired, this softbox could reduce the need for additional modifiers.
Limitations and caveats
It isn’t a perfect fit for every situation. The 85 cm footprint makes it heavier and bulkier to transport, so it may not suit compact travel rigs or tight spaces. Also, while Bowens compatibility is convenient, you will still need a Bowens-compatible light head and appropriate stand or arm to position it correctly. If you’re already using non-Bowens lights, you’ll need an adapter or a different modifier.
Who it’s for
This accessory is likely to appeal to creators who prioritise soft, even lighting with minimal setup fuss and who already own Bowens-compatible lights or ZHIYUN’s range of compatible models. It suits interview-style shoots, product demonstrations, and educational content where a broad, gentle light is advantageous.
Who it isn’t ideal for
If you often work in very tight spaces or require portable, lightweight gear, the 85 cm softbox might feel large and unwieldy. It’s also less ideal if you rely on compact, quick-swap modifiers for run-and-gun shoots where speed and low weight are more critical than maximal diffusion.
When it makes sense to buy
Consider this softbox if you need a single, high-quality diffuser that can cover a wide area with a soft wrap of light and you already use Bowens-mount lights. It can simplify setups by providing a broad light source without the complexity of stacking multiple flags or scrims.
What to check before buying
- Confirm your light head is compatible with Bowens fittings.
- Ensure you have the appropriate stands or arms to support a large 85 cm modifier safely.
- Consider your shooting space, ensure there is room to position and rotate the softbox as needed.
- If you primarily shoot with small, portable rigs, weigh the benefits of a larger diffuser against the extra bulk.
Practical usage example
Imagine a flick-through product demo: you place the lantern softbox above and slightly in front of the subject, creating a soft halo of light that reduces shadows under eyes and jawline. The result is a clean, professional look without needing multiple lights aimed from different angles.
Quick comparison (without naming brands)
This type of modifier sits between standard, smaller softboxes and umbrella solutions. If you prioritise depth of field and light wrap, a large lantern diffuser with Bowens compatibility can be more straightforward than assembling several light sources for even coverage. If you require maximum portability or ultra-fast setup, a smaller, lighter option or a different mounting system might be more suitable.
The decision section
Is it worth it?
Worth considering if you want a broad, gentle light that covers a wide area with less need for balancing several light sources. It’s a sensible option for studio-style or on-location work where a single, soft, key or fill light is preferred and Bowens compatibility aligns with your existing kit.
FAQ
- How does the 85 cm size affect setup? It requires adequate space and sturdy support, it’s not the lightest accessory in a kit.
- Do I need any special bulbs or gear? The softbox is a diffuser, you’ll use it with a Bowens-mount light head as part of your standard setup.
- Can this be used with non-Bowens lights? It’s designed for Bowens-mount systems, compatibility with other mounts would require an adapter, which is not specified here.