In this tutorial, fashion photographer Abdulai Sesay shows how to create fashion portraits that move from clean to dramatic using the Godox UL Softbox Series. The setup starts with one softbox, then builds step by step into a full softbox-only lighting setup.

The goal is not to make the lighting complicated. It is to show how softbox size, direction, fill, background light, accent light, and color can change the portrait while keeping the light soft and controlled.

Equipment

•  Lights: Godox LA600Bi and Godox LA600R

•  Light Shapers: Godox UL-Octa Box 60, Godox UL-Octa Box 180, and Godox UL-BOX 30 × 90

•  Accessories: deflector, inner diffuser, outer diffuser, grid, edge mask, and color gels

•  Model: @julie.festival

Start with one softbox.

1. Situation: The first setup begins with one UL softbox used as the key light. This gives a clean base before any other light is added.

2. Challenge: If the light is too flat, the face, shoulders, and dress lose shape. If it is too harsh, the fashion look feels less polished.

3. Solution: Place the softbox to give the portrait direction, then adjust the angle until the light shapes the face and dress without making the shadows too heavy.

Quick Tip: Start with one light and make it work first. Every light added after that should have a clear job.

Compare the 60 cm and 180 cm Octa Softboxes

1. Situation: The tutorial compares the 60 cm and 180 cm Octa softboxes from the same light position.

2. 60 cm Result: The smaller softbox gives stronger contrast and more defined shadows. It adds punch and structure to the portrait.

3. 180 cm Result: The larger softbox spreads the light over a wider area. The shadows become smoother, and the light wraps more softly around the subject.

Quick Tip: Neither size is simply better. Choose the 60 cm softbox for more contrast, and choose the 180 cm softbox for a softer full-body fashion look.

60 cm Octa Softbox

180 cm Octa Softbox

Build the Full Softbox Setup

1. Situation: After the one-light setup, the portrait needs more control over shadow detail, background tone, and edge separation.

2. Solution: Build the lighting in stages. Use one softbox as the main light, then add fill, background light, and accent light only where needed.

3. Control: Grids and edge masks help keep the light from spreading everywhere. This keeps the final setup clean, even when more lights are added.

Add Color for a Dramatic Finish

1. Situation: The final look moves from a clean studio portrait to a more dramatic fashion image.

2. Solution: Gelled light adds color and mood, while the softboxes still keep the light controlled and flattering.

3. Result: The image feels bolder, but the light still looks soft. This shows how the UL Softbox Series can move from simple portraits to stronger creative looks.

By changing the softbox size and adding each light for a clear reason, this tutorial shows how a softbox-only setup can move from clean and simple to bold and dramatic.

Gears Used

• Godox LA600Bi

• Godox LA600R

• Godox UL-Octa BOX 60

• Godox UL-Octa BOX 180

• Godox UL-BOX 30×90

• Godox UL Softbox Series accessories