Quick answer
Choose a 5° grid for a tight, narrow beam ideal for hair lights or backlight effects, and the Wide-Zoom grid for more flexibility when shaping key light or creating background effects in portraits and still life.
Beam angle and light spread
The main difference between these grids is how they control the light spread. A 5° grid narrows the beam to a very tight circle, while the Wide-Zoom grid (10°) offers a broader spread that still limits spill. This directly affects how much of your scene gets illuminated and how hard or soft the shadow edges appear.
Compatibility and mounting
Not every grid fits every light. The 5° grids are designed for specific reflectors or monolights: the D1 Honeycomb Grid snaps onto D1 or B1 monolights, the 180mm grid works with the Zoom Reflector or Grid & Filter Holder, and the 7" Reflector grid requires the Seven Inch Grid Reflector. The Wide-Zoom grid is built for the WideZoom Reflector only. Check your light's reflector mount before buying.
Trade-offs at a glance
- 5° grid (narrow beam): Delivers a very tight, focused beam. Great for hair lights, backlights, and special effects where you want minimal light spill. Use when you need pinpoint control and a small circle of light.
- Wide-Zoom grid (10° beam): Provides a wider but still controlled beam. Works well for shaping your key light, adding background effects, or highlighting specific areas in still life. Choose for more versatility in lighting a larger area without losing directionality.
- Compatibility check: 5° grids are available for D1/B1 monolights, Zoom Reflectors, and 7" Grid Reflectors. The Wide-Zoom grid only fits the WideZoom Reflector. Verify your reflector type before ordering. Match the grid to your existing reflector or light head.
Product facts
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Profoto D1 Honeycomb Grid (5 degrees): This Profoto 5° Honeycomb Grid for the D1 or B1 monolights narrows the 77° beam spread to a much tighter 5° circle. Ideal for isolating a hair light or backlight without spilling onto the background.
Profoto D1 Honeycomb Grid (5 degrees)
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Profoto Honeycomb Grid Wide-Zoom: The 10° Grid for the WideZoom Reflector can shape your key light, create background effects in portraits, or accentuate highlights in still life photography. Gives you more control over the light's shape and placement while still reducing spill.
Profoto Honeycomb Grid Wide-Zoom
Which grid fits your setup?
Best for
- Portrait photographers who need a precise hair light or backlight with minimal spill
- Still life shooters who want to accentuate highlights in a controlled area
Not for
- Shooters who need a broad, soft light source — consider a softbox or umbrella instead
- Users whose reflector type doesn't match the grid's mount