Nanlite Para 90 Quick-Open Softbox with Bowens Mount (35in)

Nanlite Para 90 Quick-Open Softbox with Bowens Mount (35in)

Professional Lighting with Fast Setup and Precise Control

The Nanlite Para 90 Quick-Open Softbox with Bowens Mount is a versatile and efficient lighting modifier tailored for photographers, videographers, and content creators who demand high-quality soft light combined with easy portability and rapid assembly. Measuring 35 inches (90 cm) in diameter with a deep 16-sided parabolic design, this softbox delivers precise, soft, and directional illumination for portraits, products, interviews, and cinematic applications.

Deep Parabolic Shape for Smooth, Wrap-Around Lighting

Unlike traditional rectangular or square softboxes, the Para 90 features a deep parabolic geometry that wraps light naturally around the subject. This produces soft, gradual shadow falloff and stunningly natural catchlights in the eyes, adding depth and life to portraiture and video interviews. Its 25-inch depth adds directional control, focusing light where it’s needed while minimizing spill on backgrounds or surrounding areas.

The box’s 16 steel rods provide structural integrity and evenly distribute tension, ensuring uniform diffusion and stability, even in outdoor or extended-use scenarios.

Silver Reflective Interior with Multiple Diffusion Options

The interior lining of the Para 90 is crafted from high-quality silver reflective fabric, maximizing light efficiency and maintaining the purity of color temperature for faithful reproduction. This reflective layer intensifies the light while avoiding hot spots.

The softbox comes with both 1-stop and 2-stop removable diffusers, allowing easy control over softness and contrast. Use the 1-stop diffuser for subtle softening with high output or the 2-stop diffuser for a dreamy, even softness suitable for beauty and product shots. For creatives seeking high-contrast lighting, removing both diffusers transforms the softbox into a large reflector for more directional, harder light.

Quick-Open Speed Ring for Rapid Assembly

A standout feature of the Para 90 is its integrated quick-open speed ring with spring-loaded rod locks. This mechanism enables users to set up or break down the softbox within seconds by snapping rods into place or releasing them with a push-button.

This rapid assembly and breakdown save valuable time on location or in busy studios, allowing photographers and filmmakers to focus more on creative work and less on gear management.

Bowens Mount for Universal Compatibility

The included Bowens-style speed ring mounts the softbox securely onto a wide array of light sources, including Nanlite’s own Forza, FC, and FS series LEDs, as well as many popular strobes and continuous lighting fixtures. This universality enhances workflow integration and supports a range of lighting styles and setups.

Optional Fabric Grid for Enhanced Light Control

To further refine the shadows and reduce spill, an optional egg crate fabric grid can be attached via Velcro fasteners. This grid limits the light’s spread to approximately 60 degrees, providing additional directionality when needed.

This accessory is especially beneficial when isolating subjects or highlighting specific areas in product photography or film lighting setups.

Durable and Portable for On-the-Go Shoots

Constructed from durable, wear-resistant nylon fabric and supported by robust steel rods, the Para 90 strikes an excellent balance between toughness and portability. Weighing about 3.6 lbs (1.6 kg), it’s lightweight enough for on-location work while sturdy enough for daily studio use.

Its included carrying case protects the softbox during travel and storage, assisting photographers and videographers who frequently move between locations.

Ideal Uses and Applications

• Portrait photography focusing on soft, even lighting and pleasing catchlights

• Product photography requiring smooth diffusion and high color fidelity

• Video interviews and documentaries demanding easy setup and controllable light

• Cinematography and broadcast production needing rapid lighting changes

• Event photography where portability and quick assembly are priorities

Technical Specifications

Conclusion

The Nanlite Para 90 Quick-Open Softbox with Bowens Mount brings together innovation, versatility, and quality in an easy-to-use design. The deep parabolic shape produces natural, soft lighting with strong directional control, while the quick-open speed ring ensures rapid setup and breakdown, saving creators precious time.

Its compatibility with a broad range of lighting fixtures and optional accessories like the egg crate grid makes it an indispensable tool for modern professionals seeking flexibility and quality in commercial and creative photography and videography.