DoPchoice Unveils Custom SNAPBAG for Astera QuikPunch LED

by Johnnie BehiriSeptember 22^nd, 2025

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DoPchoice has established itself as a specialist manufacturer of professional lightshaping gear, known for their SNAPBAG, SNAPGRID, and SNAPBOX product lines that bridge LED fixtures with traditional softbox workflows. At IBC 2025, we caught up with Stefan Karle, managing director and owner of the company, to walk us through the latest innovation: a custom 50x50cm SNAPBAG softbox designed specifically for Astera’s QuikPunch LED spotlight. This easy and quick mounting approach eliminates the need for traditional speed rings. Of course, we also took the time to speak with Ben Diaz, Head of Product Management at Astera, to learn more about their QuikPunch LED spotlight and understand why the DoPchoice SNAPBAG softbox solution for the light is a perfect match.

DoPchoice has built their reputation on creating practical lighting modifiers that solve real-world production challenges. Their new SNAPBAG for the Astera QuikPunch represents an interesting shift in how softboxes attach to Fresnel-style fixtures.

Astera QuikPunch LED

At the show, we had a chance to talk to Astera’s Ben Diaz, who took his time explaining the company’s QuikPunch LED spotlight, a 650-watt Fresnel-equivalent fixture that combines traditional spotlight functionality with modern LED convenience, featuring built-in barn doors and variable 13º–60º zoom capabilities. When Stefan heard that barn doors would be included with this fixture, he came up with the idea of easily adding his SNAPBAG softbox onto the light. This approach eliminates the need for speed rings –typically found to bridge the gap between fixtures and modifiers. Instead, DoPchoice engineered their SNAPBAG to slide directly into the QuikPunch’s barn door assembly, secured by a simple velcro mechanism.

Philosophy meets practical design

The collaboration reflects DoPchoice’s “quick philosophy” – creating modifiers that match the pace of modern productions. The result is a 50x50cm softbox that deploys in seconds without additional hardware. The modifier provides sufficient wrap for talent work, creating softer shadows and more comfortable illumination compared to the fixture’s native hard output. During the demonstration, the SNAPBAG held securely despite the minimal attachment points – addressing a common concern with quick-setup modifiers.

Expandable system architecture

DoPchoice didn’t stop with the basic SNAPBAG. Recognizing that many cinematographers need directional control even with soft sources, they developed a complementary SNAPGRID that integrates seamlessly with the softbox.

The Astera QuikPunch: perfect partner

While DoPchoice drove the innovation, the collaboration required the right fixture foundation. Astera’s QuikPunch provided that with its 650-watt Fresnel-equivalent output and, crucially, built-in barn doors that became the mounting interface. The QuikPunch offers variable zoom between 13º–60º degrees, CRM color rendering, and multiple wireless control options, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and UHF. Like traditional Fresnels, it includes barn doors – but DoPchoice saw these as more than just light control accessories.

As Ben explained, this light is for those who want one spotlight to do key light, backgrounds, or backlight. The 650W equivalent LED light provides sufficient punch for these applications while remaining battery-powered for location flexibility. This approach particularly benefits single-operator productions or small crews who need maximum versatility from minimal equipment. The barn door mounting system means crews can pack the modifier flat alongside other grip equipment without requiring dedicated speed ring storage.

Pricing and availability

The Astera QuikPunch light is already available at B&H for $1,620. The DoPchoice SNAPBAG is distributed through Astera’s global dealer network, with region-specific pricing. According to both companies, the combination has accelerated the QuikPunch’s adoption in film production beyond its original events market focus.

For more information, please head to Astera’s web page here.

What do you think about this easy, yet flexible solution from DoPchoice? Are you using any of their products? Please share your thoughts with us in the comment section below.