Lighting accessories maker Lastolite by Manfrotto has launched a Joe McNally signature ‘Plus’ edition of its popular Lastolite Ezybox Speed-Lite 2 portable soft box.

Designed to attach directly onto a flashgun, the Lastolite Ezybox Speed-Lite 2 Plus features a front diffuser that measures 22cm x 22cm.

We’d class that as a mini-softbox, ideally suited for providing soft light over small areas, such as a head and shoulders portrait. Certainly, the Lastolite Ezybox Speed-Lite 2 Plus is limited to illuminated someone’s upper half at the most.

The main difference in this Joe McNally ‘Plus’ edition of the Ezybox Speed-Lite 2 (asides from Joe’s signature all over it), is that the interior is white rather than silver, for what is described as a ’softer and creamier light’.

We haven’t had our hands on this new edition yet, but judging from the product shots it looks like the sides of the front removable diffuser have also been modified with a 45mm recess. This should reduce light spill by better covering the front edges of the soft box.

The best key features remain, including a design-patented folding frame to quickly and easily stow the soft box away completely flat, plus the rear silicon twist-lock ratchet strap that fastens securely to a large range of flashguns.

Should one desire creative lighting effects rather than using the supplied internal diffuser, magnets on the internal frame are compatible with other Lastolite accessories that feature magnets, such as a gel holder and a honeycomb.

We’ve enjoyed using the original Lastolite Ezybox Speed-Lite 2 - it’s quick to setup and provides a lovely even light. This new edition offers a slightly different alternative to what is a great product.

The Joe McNally Lastolite Ezybox Speed-Lite 2 Plus has a RRP of £59.95, includes the inner and outer diffusers and comes supplied with a carry case. For more information, please visit www.manfrotto.co.uk/lastolite