Overview
The Amaran Lantern Softbox for the Amaran F22c is a versatile, omnidirectional lighting modifier designed specifically for flat panel lights like the F22c. It’s a soft, spherical diffuser that transforms the punchy, directional light of the F22c into a 360° wraparound glow — ideal for ambient lighting in interviews, room fills, or soft overhead scenes. With its tool-free setup and collapsible design, it’s a welcome addition for filmmakers and content creators who need quality diffusion on the go.
Design & Build Quality: 9/10
The Lantern is a perfectly spherical softbox made from durable, high-transmission fabric. It clips easily onto the frame of the F22c, using a hook-and-loop mounting system that’s both secure and intuitive. Unlike traditional lanterns that require rigid rods or mounts, this one was clearly designed for speed and portability.
What really stands out is how lightweight and compact it is when packed down — a critical factor for solo shooters and mobile crews. The frame uses flexible tension arms, and the whole thing collapses flat into a slim carrying pouch.
Pros:
Ultra-light and collapsible
Quick setup without tools
Secure fit to the F22c frame
Cons:
Only compatible with the F22c/F22x — not universally mountable
Not as rugged as hard-shell modifiers
Performance & Light Quality: 9.5/10
The Amaran Lantern significantly transforms the character of the F22c’s output. Once attached, it creates a beautifully soft and omnidirectional light source, distributing illumination evenly in all directions. It's excellent for top lighting, simulating natural daylight through windows, or adding ambient fill to a space.
It maintains excellent color fidelity thanks to the F22c's strong CRI/TLCI ratings, and the lantern doesn’t introduce noticeable color shifts or hotspots. The diffusion is smooth, without center hotspots or uneven falloff, making it suitable for professional-grade interviews and narrative scenes.
Key Use Cases:
Overhead key light for interviews
Ambient fill in wide interior scenes
Soft wraparound light for beauty work
Ease of Use: 10/10
Setup takes under 60 seconds, and takedown is even faster. No rods, no speed rings, no struggling. You just unfold it and secure the Velcro edges onto the F22c frame. It’s tailored to fit, so alignment issues are almost non-existent.
What’s more, the included light control skirt allows for directional control when needed, making it surprisingly flexible for a "broad" light source. The skirt is adjustable, so you can control spill and shape the light subtly.
Bonus: Works just as well in overhead rigs, C-stands, or hanging setups.
Compatibility & Limitations: 7.5/10
While it pairs perfectly with the F22c and F22x, it is not compatible with traditional COB fixtures like the Amaran 100x or 200d, unless you rig it with adapters (which defeats the point of portability).
If you own the F22c, it’s arguably a must-have — but for users of other lights, it’s too specialized. A more universal mount would have expanded its appeal significantly.
Value for Money: 9/10
Priced accessibly (typically around $90–$120 USD), the Amaran Lantern for F22c punches well above its weight class in terms of light quality and convenience. Given its thoughtful design, high performance, and seamless integration with the F22 series, it delivers outstanding value for those within its compatibility ecosystem.
Best for: Filmmakers, YouTubers, and content creators using the Amaran F22c/x panels
Not ideal for: Shooters using traditional COB or fresnel-based systems
Final Verdict: 4.5/5 – Excellent Accessory with Niche Focus
The Amaran Lantern Softbox for F22c is a purpose-built, lightweight, and high-performance modifier that enhances the flexibility and cinematic potential of the F22c series. While it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, it’s a must-have for users within the Amaran flat panel ecosystem, offering gorgeous soft light with almost no effort.
If you already own the F22c or are planning to build a lighting kit around it, this Lantern is more than just a nice-to-have — it’s an essential companion.
