DoPchoice Snapgrid

Overview

The SNAPGRID® is a light modifier accessory from the German manufacturer DoPchoice (Munich, founded 2008 by Stefan Karle). It is a foldable grid made of tear-resistant fabric – a so-called eggcrate – that is placed in front of the light-emitting surface of a softbox or LED panel light. Its function is spill light control: it bundles the otherwise broadly radiating, soft light into a defined beam angle and prevents light from falling uncontrollably onto backgrounds or adjacent areas. The soft light quality of the source is preserved; the light simply becomes more directional.

SNAPGRID is often used in combination with DoPchoice's SNAPBAG® series of softboxes, but is also available for round/octagonal softboxes, LED panels, and gel and frost frames. It is mounted tool-free via Velcro directly onto the front surface.

Function and Designs

The beam angle (in degrees) determines how narrowly the light is bundled: a smaller value results in a narrower, more directed light cone, while a larger value results in a wider one. According to the manufacturer, the following angles are available:

• 20°, 30°, 40°, 50°, as well as a combined 30°/50° variant

Two cell structures are available: the Honeycomb structure for soft, organic light transitions and gentle fall-off, and the Box-Cell structure for more directed control with sharper cone edges. The grid is constructed to remain evenly tensioned when deployed and not to sag; reinforced seams ensure durability on set. It can be folded down small for transport and storage.

Technical Data (Example SNAPGRID Medium 40°)

Representing the product family, the manufacturer's specifications for the model with the code SGCM40 (fits SNAPBAG® Medium and Chimera Medium Lightbanks):

The specific dimensions vary depending on the compatible softbox size; SNAPGRIDs are offered model-specifically for the respective SNAPBAGs or lights.

Set Application

SNAPGRID is used to make soft light sources controllable, for example, to keep spill from a softbox away from the background, to cleanly define an interview setup, or to create directed product lighting. It is a grip/light modifier accessory and not a light source itself – it therefore has neither wattage nor color temperature, but shapes the light from the source behind it. The quick setup and breakdown via Velcro, along with its small packed size, make it attractive for mobile setups.