Two 120cm Umbrellas, Two Different Light Qualities
The Phottix Premio Reflective and Shoot-Through umbrellas share the same 120cm size and heavy-duty fiberglass ribs, but they shape light differently. Your choice comes down to whether you want maximum output with crisp contrast or a softer, more neutral fill that saves space.
Both are dual-use modifiers in the sense that they can be used in bounce or shoot-through mode, but the reflective model is optimized for bounce with a silver interior, while the shoot-through model uses white fabric for a more neutral color rendering.
Key Specs That Affect Your Decision
- Phottix Premio Reflective Umbrella (120cm): Reflective umbrella with high-output silver interior and black backing; 120cm size; heavy-duty fiberglass ribs; optional white softbox-type diffuser available. The silver interior maximizes output and maintains crisp contrast, making it ideal when you need power and punch. The optional diffuser can turn it into a softbox-like source for softer light.
Phottix Premio Reflective Umbrella (120cm) - Phottix Premio Shoot-Through Umbrella (120cm): Shoot-through umbrella made of white fabric for neutral color rendering; can be used in traditional bounce mode or space-saving shoot-through mode; 120cm size; heavy-duty fiberglass ribs. White fabric provides neutral color and softer light with moderate contrast. Shoot-through mode aims the convex side at the subject for snappier contrast and saves space in tight rooms.
Phottix Premio Shoot-Through Umbrella (120cm)
Output and Contrast: Silver vs White
- Reflective (silver interior): The silver reflective interior maximizes output and maintains crisp contrast. It reflects more light back onto the subject, giving you more power for the same strobe setting. The heavy-duty fiberglass ribs also help produce natural-looking catchlights in the eyes.
- Shoot-through (white fabric): The white fabric offers neutral color rendering and creates a soft quality of light with moderate contrast. In shoot-through mode, the convex side faces the subject for snappier contrast than bounce mode, while still being softer than a bare reflector.
When to Choose the Reflective Umbrella
Pick the Phottix Premio Reflective Umbrella (120cm) when you need maximum output and crisp contrast. Its silver interior and black backing make it efficient for bouncing light into a subject, and the optional white diffuser lets you soften the output when you want a larger, softer source. The heavy-duty fiberglass ribs are built to handle regular studio use and help create natural catchlights.
This umbrella suits portrait photographers who want punchy light with defined shadows, or anyone working in a space where they can bounce light off the umbrella without worrying about spill. Because it's reflective, you'll typically aim the open side toward the subject and fire your strobe into the umbrella.
When to Choose the Shoot-Through Umbrella
Choose the Phottix Premio Shoot-Through Umbrella (120cm) when you want a softer, more neutral light and need to save space. In shoot-through mode, you point the convex side at your subject and fire through the fabric, which spreads the light widely and creates a soft quality with moderate contrast. This is handy in small studios or when you want to get the modifier close to your subject without a bounce setup.
The white fabric gives neutral color rendering, so skin tones stay accurate. You can also use it in traditional bounce mode if you need a different look. The heavy-duty fiberglass ribs provide durability, and the 120cm size offers a good balance between portability and light spread.
What the Supplied Information Doesn’t Cover
The supplied records do not include details on the umbrella's shaft diameter, compatibility with specific strobe mounts, or exact weight. They also do not specify whether the reflective model's optional diffuser is included or sold separately, nor do they provide setup instructions. For critical compatibility, check with the manufacturer or your local dealer before purchasing.
Neither umbrella's record lists a carrying case or warranty information. If those matter to you, confirm with the retailer.
