I got this softbox about a week ago and am satisfied with the light quality it puts out but I have some concerns with the construction. First, you DO need the hotshoe adapter for the SB-900. Based on someone else's comment, I ordered one. However, I don't think I'll be using my 900 with this box b/c it barely fits through the opening in the metal ring.I know my 900 would be scratched in no time. And the diffuser dome for the 900 can only be put on after the flash has been inserted which means that if you want to switch it up, you'd have to take the front cover off the softbox. If a 285 can fit through the opening, then it might go in all the way in - I don't have one so I can't test it. My sb-16 does barely fit (better than the 900) but I can't put in with the diffuser either.Luckily I have an 800 that fits into the hole no problem, even with the dome on. But this brings me to my second concern. The metal ring is not sealed in anyway against the material of the softbox and, due to the play between the softbox and ring, there is definitely light leak. If your softbox is always behind your camera, then there is no problem, but if you put it to the side and in front of the camera, you might get some light flare. When using studio softboxes, we were always ultra careful to make sure the it was sealed completely. I also find that my sb-800 doesn't go all the way into the hole b/c of one of the screws on the metal L bracket. The flash goes forward so far and then butts up against the screw leaving it partially outside which allows for further light leak from my sb-800. Forget using a Metz CT flash.My last issue is that what holds the softbox to the bracket is the tension between the flexible 'cords' that give the box shape (I'm not sure what they are made up b/c they covered by material) and the metal ring sliding under the cords. I am hoping that there isn't a lot of friction between the metal and the material holding the cords or else I can see the metal ring cutting through the material. I would guess that the target audience for this box would be wedding photographers who are always on the move. I have no doubt that the box will come off the metal ring if it being dragged around a wedding.
I live overseas and therefore cannot return the box for a refund - I probably would if I could. I am going to look a little more closely at the competitors to see if they have the same construction or have a different method.
I should probably give it 2 stars but I think it will give good light as long as you're not looking to use it for moving around at a wedding or as a paparazzi type situation.
EDIT:
I just went to Lastolite's sight and watched their video on their EzyBox Hotshoe softbox.IT IS THE SAME AS THIS BOX - but way more expensive. Ok, they include one more diffusion layer. I suspect the other ones are the same as well. If you're going to buy one, it might as well be the less expensive one.
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Product Description:
This leight-weight mini softbox is easy to install and helps you recreate near studio quality pictures- another must-have camera flash accessory for the wedding & event photographer. Features: Setup time less than 3 minutes, easily attaches to ALZO Flip Flash Bracket or any light stand, works with TTL and non-TTL style flash units, universal flash mounting bracket adapts to most flashes, and includes shoe mount and a 1/4" x 20 screw mount; comes with black nylon carry bag.
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