Umbrellas, in comparison with softboxes, which direct the light only in the desired direction, have a slightly different direction of light. The umbrella in the photo Department works as a photosphere, shines in all directions, the light when passing through the umbrella turns out to be softer than on a naked flash, but a little tougher than through a softbox with an additional cloth diffuser, but nevertheless, the light is quite soft, so umbrellas can compete with the usual softboxes.