Best overall		Lume Cube Ring Light Pro		SEE IT	This kit comes with an 18-inch dimmable LED ring light with a remote and multiple mounting options.
Best for makeup videos		Lume Cube Ring Light Mini		SEE IT	This 12-inch ring light is ideal for makeup tutorials and closer portraits.
Best budget		MountDog LED Ring Light 14 inch Dimmable Selfie Ring		SEE IT	This budget-friendly model comes with a dimmable LED light and adjustable stand and works with a smartphone.

LED ring lights were once considered a very specialized piece of lighting equipment for photographers. But these days, a ring light is a popular tool for vloggers, makeup artists, TikTok stars, and video calls. An LED ring light delivers flattering, shadow-free lighting and striking circular catchlights in the eyes. This style of light is a great way to enhance the quality of light in a room and make you look your best. They come in a variety of sizes, suitable for a range of applications. A large ring light is incredibly versatile, and many come with an accessory to clip your phone into the center. On the other hand, a mini clip-on ring light is best suited for grabbing well-lit footage on the go or clipping onto your laptop before a video call. Here’s how to find the best LED ring lights for you.

• Best overall: Lume Cube Ring Light Pro
• Best multipurpose: Westcott Bi-Color LED Ring Light Kit
• Best clip-on: Cyezcor Video Conference Lighting Kit
• Best for phones: QIAYA Portable Clip Selfie Light
• Best for makeup videos: Lume Cube Ring Light Mini
• Best budget: MountDog LED Ring Light 14 inch Dimmable Selfie Ring

How we chose the best LED ring lights

When selecting the best LED ring lights, we considered a range of factors. Build quality was one of our primary considerations, as you want a light—and stand if it comes with one—that will last you a long time. Second, we evaluated brightness, dimming options, temperature options, colors available, and size. We selected lights with a range of power sources since some may prefer to use the light on the go as opposed to being tethered in the studio. Finally, we looked at the accessories included with each light, which have the potential to make them more convenient to use.

The best LED ring lights: Reviews & Recommendations

Ideal lighting doesn’t always exist when you need to take photos or videos. LED ring lights are a great way to create your own perfect light, enabling you to take beautiful photos or videos whenever you need or want to. The lights below are suitable for just about everyone, whether you are a smartphone vlogger or a professional studio photographer. 

Best overall: Lume Cube Ring Light Pro

SEE IT

Specs

• Color temperature: 3200 – 5600K
• Dimming: 0 – 100%
• Brightness: 1700 Lux at 1.6 feet
• Power source: AC Adapter or built-in battery
• Diameter: 17 inches
• Weight: Not provided

Pros

• Produces soft, even light with built-in diffusion
• Powered by AC adapter or built-in battery
• Very bright with adjustable temperature and brightness
• Can also charge accessories while you use the light
• 70 minutes of battery life at full power

Cons

• Expensive

The Lume Cube Ring Light Pro earns the top spot thanks to its versatility and high-quality design. It features 256 bi-color LEDs capable of putting out 1700 lux at 1.6 feet. You can easily dim the light or adjust the temperature to your needs. The light offers a 96+ CRI output, resulting in accurate skin tones. It’s an ideal choice for fashion photographers, hair stylists, or makeup artists as a result. Thanks to the edge-lit technology, it produces soft, even light. 

One of the best features of the Ring Light Pro is that you can run it off of the included AC adapter or via the built-in battery. That means you can use the light in places where you don’t have access to an outlet. And there’s no need to keep track of separate batteries like you do with other ring lights. Plus, there are two USB ports on the side that you can use to charge accessories and devices if you need to. 

The Ring Light Pro comes with a sturdy stand that is adjustable from 18 to 70 inches. It includes a phone mount, or you can use your camera via the standard tripod thread. Lume Cube also included a remote, so you don’t have to run back and forth to the light to make adjustments. This Lume Cube option is a pricey one, but if you want a multipurpose LED ring light with plenty of features and quality, it’s the best option available. 

Best multipurpose: Westcott Bi-Color LED Ring Light Kit

SEE IT

Specs

• Color temperature: 3200 – 5600K (+/- 300K)
• Dimming: 0 – 100% (stepped)
• Brightness: 
• Power source: AC adapter or two Sony L-Series / NP-F batteries
• Diameter: 18 inches
• Weight: 1.7 pounds

Pros

• Can be powered by batteries or AC adapter
• Comes with lots of accessories
• Adjustable temperature and brightness
• Comes with a travel case

Cons

• Included stand isn’t very sturdy

If you don’t want to spend quite as much as the Lume Cube light above but still want a versatile, multipurpose LED ring light, the Westcott Bi-Color light is your next best option. Wescott has a long-standing reputation for creating high-quality lighting products, and its ring light is no different. 

This Wescott ring light produces soft, even, and attractive light. It offers the same range of temperature adjustment, though in 300K increments. The brightness is also adjustable from zero to 100 percent. Westcott promises a CRI/TLCI rating of 97, meaning it is very color-accurate, an important feature for portraiture. 

You can either rely on an outlet for power or utilize the two included NP-F750 batteries for on-location shoots. It comes with a light stand that extends to 6.5 feet, so you’ll be able to work with some tall models. There’s also a gooseneck arm, swivel mount, and mobile device mount, giving you plenty of options for connecting a camera or accessories. And everything packs into a handy travel case to keep you organized.

Best clip-on: Cyezcor Video Conference Lighting Kit

SEE IT

Specs

• Color temperature: 3200K, 4500K, or 6500K (3 levels of adjustment)
• Dimming: 0-100% (5 levels of adjustment)
• Brightness: 10W
• Power source: USB
• Diameter: 5.12 inches
• Weight: 10.2 ounces

Pros

• Very affordable
• Easy to use
• Compatible with most laptops and monitors
• Tiny and portable

Cons

• Limited brightness and temperature adjustments

Many of us spend countless hours in remote meetings, in office spaces that aren’t very well-lit. This Cyezcor clip-on ring light is great for those long hours spent in video chats or Zoom meetings. It clips onto the top of your laptop or monitor and provides flattering, even light so that your colleagues can see you clearly. The built-in clip features a ball joining so that you can get the angle of the light just right. Just don’t forget a quality webcam if you really want to up your game. 

The clip-on light offers three color temperatures (white light, warm light, and natural light). It also provides five levels of brightness and up to 10W of brightness from the 48 LED lamp beads. It’s USB-powered, which makes it very portable since you can simply plug it into your laptop or a power bank. It’s not the fanciest light out there, but it’s an affordable, straightforward option for illuminating your work meetings or live streams. 

Best portable: QIAYA Portable Clip Selfie Light

SEE IT

Specs

• Color temperature: 5600K
• Dimming: 3 Levels (low, normal, high)
• Brightness: Not provided
• Power source: Two AAA batteries
• Diameter: 3.5 inches
• Weight: 1.5 ounces

Pros

• Very compact and portable
• Easily clips onto a phone or other devices
• Three brightness levels
• Affordable

Cons

• No temperature adjustment

If you exclusively use your phone for creating content, you don’t necessarily need a giant ring light. This portable battery-powered LED ring light features 36 bulbs to deliver flattering light for photo or video capture. It clips to the top of your phone, laptop, or tablet using a soft, sponge-gel clip. The soft clip ensures it won’t scratch your phone as you film videos for TikTok or YouTube, host live streams, or capture beautiful, evenly lit selfies.

This mini LED ring light can be set to low, normal, or high brightness. You’ll simply need two AAA batteries for power, meaning you don’t have to fuss with cables. It’s small enough to throw in your pocket or purse, so you can keep it on you when you’re on the go. And you can even use it as a reading light or run with it for safety purposes, adding to its versatility. It’s a basic ring light with no temperature adjustment, but for around $12, it’s a fantastic option.

Best for makeup videos: Lume Cube Ring Light Mini

SEE IT

Specs

• Color temperature: 2700K – 7500K 
• Dimming: 0 – 100%
• Brightness: 960 Lux at 1.6 feet
• Power source: USB-C
• Diameter: 12 inches
• Weight: Not provided

Pros

• Comes with two mounting options
• USB-C powered 
• Brightness is adjustable in 1 percent increments
• Produces bright, soft, and even light

Cons

• Doesn’t include a case
• No cordless option

Makeup artists will appreciate the smaller diameter of the Lume Cube Ring Light Mini. The 12-inch size is an ideal option for the headshot range that makeup tutorials utilize, as it doesn’t overpower the subject or take up too much room. It is USB-C powered and comes with a 6.5-foot cable so that you can plug it into a power block or device. That means you’ll always have a cable around, but you can use a portable battery pack for on-location shoots. 

As with the other Lume Cube light, it utilizes edge-lit technology and built-in diffusion for soft, even light. And it provides 960 lux at 1.7 feet, which is plenty bright for makeup videos. The brightness is adjustable in one percent increments and you can adjust the temperature from 2700K to 7500K. You’ll be able to really dial in the look and feel of your light to fit your needs and balance any other light in the room.

This small but mighty LED ring light comes with two mounting options. You’ll get a desk clam for sturdy mounting on a table or desk. It also includes an aluminum tripod base so that you can use it on any flat surface for quick setup and breakdown. Both stands offer 180 degrees of tilt for capturing your tools and workstation as well. And the light comes with a rotating smartphone mount, so you can take portrait or landscape photos and videos.

Best budget: MountDog LED Ring Light 14 inch Dimmable Selfie Ring

SEE IT

Specs

• Color temperature: 3200K  -5600K (3 levels of adjustment)
• Dimming: 1 – 100% (10 levels of adjustment)
• Brightness: Not provided
• Power source: AC power adapter
• Diameter: 14 inches
• Weight: 3.89 pounds

Pros

• Included stand adjusts from 15 to 60 inches
• Includes a Bluetooth remote with 32-foot range
• Phone mount is flexible
• Adjustable brightness and temperature

Cons

• AC power cord is a little short
• No battery power option

This dimmable 14-inch LED ring light is a great choice if you are looking for a full-sized model but are also on a budget. The dimming range is between one to 100 percent with ten levels of adjustment. And it offers three levels of color temperature from 3200K to 5600K.

This budget LED ring light comes with a stand that can extend from 15 to 60 inches. The included smartphone mount utilizes a flexible hose with a ball head so that you can fine-tune your shooting angle. There is no way to attach a DSLR or mirrorless camera, however, so you’ll need to set up a separate tripod or shoot handheld if you prefer to use one of those. It also includes a Bluetooth remote with a 32-foot range, a surprising feature for such a budget-friendly option. 

What to consider when shopping for the best LED ring lights

Ring lights are overall simple devices with fairly limited features. That said, it’s important that you consider how and where you intend to use the light before making your purchase. Below are some factors that are important when deciding which option is best for you.

Size

LED ring lights come in a variety of sizes that are suitable for different applications. Large 18-inch ring lights are great for shooting portraits, photographing products, or capturing tiny details for macro photography. Most of these ring lights have a place to mount a camera along with your smartphone inside the center of the ring light to create a nice shadow-free even light on your subject. 

If you are planning to use a ring light for video conferencing or closer portraits, a smaller diameter ring light with a small tripod stand or a clip for your laptop will likely do the trick. LED ring lights with smaller diameters typically cost less money too. If you are looking to create makeup videos, selfies, or content for TikTok, a small portable model will serve you well.

Dimming abilities

The ability to dim your ring light is crucial to getting the best light for a range of situations. There are times that full-blast light will be overkill, creating unattractive light on your subject. As a result, be sure to look for a model that allows at least some level of brightness adjustment. If you want full control, look for an option that is dimmable from zero to 100 percent with stepless adjustment. 

Mounting options & device support

Most LED ring lights will come with some sort of stand to hold the light. Usually, that takes the form of a traditional tripod-style light stand. Some may come with clamps to attach the light to a tabletop or a short tripod ideal for working at a desk. Small lights typically clip directly to your monitor, laptop, or phone. No matter what, be sure to verify that the light comes with a stand compatible with how you intend to use it.

Your light will also need to be able to hold the device you plan on using for taking images or videos. While you certainly can hand-hold your camera, it will be much easier to get good results with even light if your device is mounted inside the light. If you plan on using a camera, look for a ring light that offers a tripod mount and can support the weight of your camera. If you will be using your mobile device, focus on a ring light that comes with a phone mount instead. 

Power source

Ring lights rely on various types of power sources. Some require an AC adapter and outlet, while others receive power via USB-C cables. There are also lights that do away with cords entirely and use batteries—either built-in or removable. If you plan on using your LED ring light exclusively in a studio or office environment, you may be able to save some money by opting for a device that requires a corded power method. However, if you want to take the light with you on location, look for a battery-powered light. Built-in batteries are more ideal than removable ones, as it’s one less thing to keep track of. But it also costs more, so there is a tradeoff. 

Remote

When you’re vlogging, making Tiktoks, or conducting a self-styled photoshoot, you’re not going to want to keep walking back and forth to adjust the settings of your light. A remote is a handy way of controlling the light without all the work, simplifying your shoot. Not all LED ring lights come with a remote, though, so be sure to look closely to verify it is remote-compatible if that’s important to you. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best LED ring lights

• Best overall: Lume Cube Ring Light Pro
• Best multipurpose: Westcott Bi-Color LED Ring Light Kit
• Best clip-on: Cyezcor Video Conference Lighting Kit
• Best for phones: QIAYA Portable Clip Selfie Light
• Best for makeup videos: Lume Cube Ring Light Mini
• Best budget: MountDog LED Ring Light 14 inch Dimmable Selfie Ring

An LED ring light is a powerful, easy-to-use tool for photographers and videographers. A larger diameter ring light will be more expensive than the mini ones but a far more versatile tool. Most large ring lights include an accessory for your smartphone, some Bluetooth capabilities, and are dimmable or allow you to control color. A larger diameter ring light is also a great tool for shooting portraits in the studio. If you are looking for a ring light for video chatting or creating content primarily for TikTok, a smaller clip-on LED ring light will likely do the trick. Regardless of the size, the best LED ring lights will provide even, shadow-free light to make sure that you look your best in front of the camera.

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

The post The best LED ring lights of 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

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Best overall		Rotolight Neo 3		SEE IT	A versatile LED panel that doubles as an action-freezing flash.
Best for artists		Lume Cube Flex Light Pro		SEE IT	You get two LED light panels in one with this light.
Best for video		Neewer RGB1200 60W RGB LED Video Light		SEE IT	A great light for video shoots thanks to the 18 special effects and RGB color options.

LED light panels can help you create interesting, depth-creating light where it doesn’t exist. That’s crucial because having a great camera is just one part of the equation. Without quality light, your images and videos will fall flat. Most LED panels offer constant light, meaning they are ideal for video applications or photographers who are new to lighting. They come in bicolor, temperature-adjustable formats, or RGB models that offer the full rainbow. Many are portable and camera-mountable, so you can bring them with you out into the wild. No matter what style you are looking for, the best LED light panels put the power of an adjustable sun in your creative hands. 

• Best overall: Rotolight Neo 3
• Best for artists: Lume Cube Flex Light Pro 
• Best for Zoom hosts: VILTROX L116T Key Light LED Video Light
• Best for video: Neewer RGB1200 60W RGB LED Video Light
• Best for YouTubers: Lume Cube Panel Mini
• Best budget: EMART LED Video Light

The best LED light panels: Reviews & Recommendations

The best LED light panel transforms boring images and videos into dynamic works of art. With a budget in mind, look for options that fit your style and environment. Will you only be using the LED light panel indoors? Will you be using it on top of a camera or phone? Do you need multiple lights? Do you want to change the light color? Is portability a factor? Browse the best LED light panels below and find the illumination that works for you. 

Best overall: Rotolight Neo 3

SEE IT

Specs

• Color temperature: 3,000-10,000K
• Dimming: Yes
• Lux: 4,541 Lux at 3.3 feet
• Color accuracy: TLCI 99, CRI 95
• Power source: Rechargeable battery
• Dimensions: 5.7 x 5.7 x 2
• Weight: 12.8 ounces

Pros

• Provides constant light and flash modes
• Compact and lightweight for use on camera
• Comes with a rechargeable battery
• Able to produce 16.7 million colors

Cons

• Expensive

Perhaps the most versatile LED panel around, the Rotolight NEO 3 is an ideal choice for hybrid shooters. Videographers and vloggers will appreciate the steady stream of constant light at 5,443 lux at 3.3 feet. Photographers can use the light to sync with a camera’s flash system to provide super-fast bursts of light for freezing action mid-movement. In fact, it can sync up to 1/8,000 second with no recycle time, enabling fast burst shooting without loss of light quality. Typical LED panels can’t do that. 

The Rotolight NEO 3 offers full RGB lighting with 16.7 million colors. The range of colors can be used in both constant and flash modes, adding to its versatility. You’ll be able to use this one light as a key, fill, or colored accent. And perhaps more importantly, it provides highly accurate color, with a TLCI rating of 99. It can function on or off-camera thanks to built-in wireless support, though you’ll need to buy wireless transmitters separately.

The back of the light features plenty of controls for easy use. There are two physical knobs along with a color touchscreen. You can save presets to quickly go back to your favorite modes, and there are special effects settings such as lightning and fire. The mobile app adds even more flexibility and control, including the ability to use multiple lights at the same time. It weighs just over a pound, and you can mount it to a light stand, handle, or other grip for easy maneuvering.  It’s not a cheap light, but it sure does give you a lot for the price.

Best for artists: Lume Cube Flex Light Pro 

SEE IT

Specs

• Color temperature: 3,000-6,500K
• Dimming: Yes, 5-100%
• Lux: 1,800 lux at 1.6 feet
• Color accuracy: CRI 96
• Power source: AC Power
• Dimensions: 13 x 2.25 (fixture panel)
• Weight: Not provided

Pros

• Two lights in one
• Comes with a light stand, phone holder, and case
• Easy to use
• High-quality and color-accurate light

Cons

• Arms don’t stay in position very well
• Requires a power source

The Lume Cube Flex Light Pro is a rather unique LED panel as it is two lights in one. The two-light setup is ideal for tattoo artists, painters, or any other creative who needs even light with no distracting shadows. As a constant light source, it’s also ideal for videographers or photographers who don’t want to deal with flash.

Lume Cube built this light with 128 high-quality LEDs per panel, providing a total of 2300 Lumens and 1800 lux at 1.6 feet. The built-in diffusion ensures even light with no hot spots or shadows. Both panels are mounted on 11-inch flexible arms so that you can adjust the angle and position of each light independently. It features adjustable brightness from 5 to 100 percent and automatically saves the settings from when you last shut it down. 

The Flex Light Pro features an LCD screen on the base of the light so that you can easily see and adjust your settings. It comes with a quality light stand that can extend to 70 inches. The kit also includes a gooseneck phone mount, so you can record hands-free. Additionally, you’ll get a power cable and a handy travel case to keep it all together.

Best for Zoom hosts: VILTROX L116T Key Light LED Video Light

SEE IT

Specs

• Color temperature: 3,300-5,600k
• Dimming: Yes, 20-100%
• Lux: 810 lux at 1.6 feet
• Color accuracy: CRI 95+
• Power source: Rechargeable battery (Li-battery NP-F550)
• Dimensions: 7.56 x 5.04 x 0.98 inches
• Weight: 9.17 ounces

Pros

• Comes with a hot shoe adapter for on-camera use
• Can be used with an AC adapter for continuous battery life
• Adjustable brightness and temperature
• Very compact and lightweight

Cons

• Not as bright as other panels

The Viltrox L116T is the best LED light panel for Zoom hosts or other live-streamers thanks to its simple design and settings and even light. You can easily adjust the color temperature (3,300K to 5,600K) and brightness (20 to 100 percent) from the rear control panel and LCD display. And once you’ve honed in on the right look, you can set it and forget it thanks to the automatic recall. 

The L116T provides 15W of light, with 810 lux at 1.6 feet. The soft light makes it ideal for a simple, single-light setup when the subject can stay relatively close to the light. It features a built-in diffuser for even light. This LED panel utilizes a rechargeable NF-F550 battery, which will only last a couple of hours. And it can take a while to charge. But you can buy an AC adapter separately if you want to ensure you don’t run out of battery power in the middle of your meeting or streaming session. 

Best for video: Neewer RGB1200 60W RGB LED Video Light

SEE IT

Specs

• Color temperature: 2,500-8,500K
• Dimming: Yes, 1-100%
• Lux: 22,000 lux at 1.6 feet
• Color accuracy: CRI 97+
• Power source: AC adapter (included) or NP-F batteries (not included)
• Dimensions: Not provided
• Weight: Not provided

Pros

• 18 different special effects
• Compatible with a smartphone app for easy control
• Can sync to music
• Wide range of colors and brightness

Cons

• Batteries must be purchased separately
• Requires two NP-F batteries for full power

The Neewer RGB1200 is the best LED panel for videographers because of its robust set of options and features. You can adjust the color temperature from 2,500 to 8,500K and brightness as low as one percent to a full hundred percent. And it offers 18 different special effects, such as lightning, explosion, welding, and more. You can also sync the light to music, which changes the light based on pitch and volume, making it a fun tool for music videos. 

This light comes with barn doors attached and includes a diffuser, giving you more control over your light. The U-shaped bracket allows you to adjust the angle of the light a full 360 degrees. It makes a great LED panel for Etsy sellers and product photographers for these reasons. There are plenty of physical controls on the back of the light, but you can also use the Neewer app to remotely adjust settings and save your own presets. And you can sync multiple lights to the app if you need more than one light. 

The Neewer RGB1200 comes with an AC power adapter, but you can also use NP-F batteries. You’ll need to purchase them separately, though, and will need to for full power. It doesn’t come with a light stand, so you’ll need to pick one of those up for hands-free operation.

Best for YouTubers: Lume Cube Panel Mini

SEE IT

Specs

• Color temperature: 3,200-5,600K
• Dimming: Yes, 1-100%
• Lux: 550 lux at 1.6 feet
• Color accuracy: CRI 96
• Power source: Rechargeable battery (built-in)
• Dimensions: 3.6 x 2.2 x 0.5 inches
• Weight: 3.04 ounces

Pros

• Extremely tiny and portable
• Fully adjustable color temperature and brightness
• LCD screen for adjusting settings
• Built-in battery runs for 1.2 hours at full brightness

Cons

• Not as bright as other options

Lume Cube makes some of the best lights for vloggers, YouTubers, and video creators. The Panel Mini is the most affordable option from the lighting company, and it’s also one of the smallest. It is roughly the size of a credit card and weighs just over three ounces. That makes it very easy to keep on you when shooting on location or traveling. And it won’t add much weight to your camera, which is ideal if you are shooting handheld. 

The Panel Mini provides an adjustable temperature from 3,200 to 5,600K, and it offers a CRI rating of 96, so you can trust the color will be accurate. You can also adjust the brightness from one to 100 percent. This is a bicolor light, meaning you’ll only be able to adjust temperature and light strength. But for many, that’s ideal, especially as it keeps the cost down. If you do want the ability to change color while keeping the tiny size, the Lume Cube RGB Panel GO is another great option. 

This tiny LED panel offers 550 lux at 1.6 feet, which is less than the others on our list. As a result, it is best used in situations where the subject is fairly close to the camera, such as recording yourself at arm’s length or tabletop photography. It comes with a silicone diffuser for softening the light when you need to. The easy controls, small size, and minimal settings make this an ideal choice for beginners but also a fun tool for experienced pros. 

Best budget: EMART LED Video Light 

SEE IT

Specs

• Color temperature: 5,600K
• Dimming: Yes, 11 levels from 10-100%
• Lux: Not provided, 1,000 lumen
• Color accuracy: CRI 90+
• Power source: USB
• Dimensions: 5.51 x 3.74 x 54 inches (light stand included)
• Weight: 

Pros

• 11 brightness levels
• Comes with two lights and lots of accessories
• 180 degrees of angle adjustment

Cons

• Lifespan isn’t very long

If you’ve never used a lighting kit and want some practice before investing a lot of money, this inexpensive LED kit gives you plenty to get started. It comes with two LED panels, two stands that extend to 54 inches, and two mini tripods for tabletop use. Additionally, it includes four colored filters (white, red, orange, and blue) that allow you to experiment with light setups and play with creative lighting. 

They are very easy to use, making them great for creative kids. It offers 11 levels of brightness from 10 to 100 percent. They are powered via USB, so you can plug them into a computer in a pinch if you don’t have access to an outlet. The temperature is fixed to 5,600K, which some may not like. But it makes them extra simple to use. 

For less than $50, don’t expect high-quality materials and dependable manufacturing. This is a budget-priced lighting kit that’s more fun than functional. Some users have reported that they don’t last very long. But if you need some lights in a pinch to get started, these will do the job.

What to consider when shopping for the best LED light panels

For a long time, LED light panels were looked down on as inaccurate tools for amateurs. They couldn’t hold a candle (pun intended) to traditional strobes or studio fluorescents. But in the past decade, these mighty bright lights have made huge improvements in the art of long-lasting, great-looking illumination. Today’s portable LED powerhouses are professional-quality lights capable of shining stunning, precise light on all of your creative projects. 

Color temperature 

Some LED light panels offer a number of settings that you’ll have to dial in before you get shooting. You will need to adjust it to get the best effect for your location. That’s why you should look for LED light panels with easy, user-friendly adjustability.  

The first thing to consider when shopping for a light panel is color temperature. Measured in Kelvin, the color temperature is a number between 1,000 and 10,000 which describes the warmth of the light. For example, low-color temperature lights of 2,700K will produce orange and yellowish light like typical incandescent bulbs. Higher temperature lights of 5,000K produce more neutral light, closer to that of direct sunlight.  

The goal of the LED light panel is to match or balance the color temperature of the environment. If you’re taking photos inside and want a natural, cozy look, a lower color temperature works best. Some LED light panels can be adjusted to meet your needs with a variety of color options. 

Dimming

Another key adjustment you’ll want is brightness. You don’t always need a light at 100 percent power, as it could easily overwhelm the subject or scenario. Most LED light panels will offer some degree of built-in dimming. Some will only offer a limited range, and some may only offer incremental steps instead of smooth adjustability. If you want lots of control, look for a light that offers a wide range of dimming options. 

Bicolor & RGB

When shopping for LED light panels, you can choose between bicolor or RGB. Bicolor lights will only offer white light with adjustable temperature. These are usually cheaper and more straightforward to use. RGB lights, as you might guess by the name, offer many colors along with temperature-adjustable white. RGB-compatible lights will allow you to get really creative with your lighting, providing more room to play. They provide the ability to create those colorful backgrounds you see in so many YouTube videos or add color as a fill light to your studio portraits.

Power source

LED light panels come with different power source options. You’ll need to choose between a battery-powered device or one that requires you to keep it plugged into a power source. If you plan on doing lots of shooting outside or on location or want to use the LED light panel on your camera, a battery-powered device is best. But if you are using the light panel in a studio or office setting, you can get away with a corded option.

Some lights offer the ability to use both methods, though you’ll likely have to buy either a power adapter or battery separately. Be sure to look closely at the power source before purchasing so that you don’t end up with a corded light that you meant to use outside.

Color rendering index numbers

You may see a Color Rendering Index (CRI) number when shopping for LED light panels. CRI is not the same as color temperature. Confused? Even pros have trouble wrapping their brain around this one. While color temperature can tell you if the light will look like a sunny day or an orange indoor dining room, the CRI number tells you how accurately the color of an object will look. CRI is measured on a scale of 1 to 100. 

Sunlight has a CRI of 100 because the colors always look accurate. The higher the number, the better. Any light with a CRI above 90 will be great for photos and videos. And for LED lights, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a CRI number below 80. For that reason, don’t get hung up on this stat. Focus on color temperature. You’ll want a good range, between 3,200K degrees to 5,600K. 

Light size & modifiers

When it comes to controlling the hardness of your light, there are a few things you should consider. The light source’s size relative to the subject does a lot to dictate how hard the light looks. A larger light source creates softer light. But, even if you have a relatively small light source, you can put an umbrella or other light modifier over the light itself to make the source seem bigger. If you don’t want to fuss with a modifier, get a light with a bigger surface area.

You can also soften a light source by adding a diffuser. Some LED light panels come with their own right in the box. A diffuser typically consists of a translucent layer that scatters the light as it exits the panel. Because all the rays aren’t traveling in the same direction, some of them will fill in shadowy areas that otherwise may go too dark or harsh. 

Budget

Keep an eye on your budget, as some LED lighting kits can be very expensive. A simple LED light panel may cost no more than $30, but a full-blown, pro-level lighting kit with key light, backlight, and fill light can run over $2,000, which hurts if you’re on an indie budget. Unless you’re a professional portrait photographer or a high-end video shooter, there’s no need to clean out your bank account for LED light panels.

For making online videos, taking impressive Instagram pics, or hosting a live-streamed conference call, a set of two LED light panels should run less than $200 and will cover you in all the glorious light needed to make an impact. Prices escalate when you add more features and larger lights. But a low-priced table-top light panel will provide more than enough light for great-looking photos, videos, and jealousy-inducing social media posts.   

Number of lights

Most professional pics and videos are based on the three-point-lighting rule: A key light aimed at the subject, a fill light from the opposite angle to shine away any harsh shadows, and a backlight to make the subject pop out from the background. You may not need all three lights, but having at least two light panels will give you options to turn flat, dull pictures and videos into eye-catching images. 

Depending on the look you’re going for, you can ditch the backlight. This is the most subtle of the three lights and can be the most difficult to position. Using two soft lights in front of your subject will get the job done. And if you only have one LED light panel, position the soft light panel at a 45-degree angle from the subject for a dramatic look, or stick it right in front of your subject for the now popular YouTuber aesthetic. Bottom line: Experiment and have fun. Use however many lights you’ve got in your kit and try new setups to find dynamic looks. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best LED light panels

• Best overall: Rotolight Neo 3
• Best for artists: Lume Cube Flex Light Pro 
• Best for Zoom hosts: VILTROX L116T Key Light LED Video Light
• Best for video: Neewer RGB1200 60W RGB LED Video Light
• Best for YouTubers: Lume Cube Panel Mini
• Best budget: EMART LED Video Light

Give photos and videos the light they deserve with an LED light panel. These thin rectangles of light are powerful tools for every type of image capturing. Use them for live-streaming, taking pictures of cats, shooting a sci-fi epic in your backyard, or any other creative project on your list. Don’t let the numbers and stats intimidate you. With a basic understanding of color temperature, you’ll have enough know-how to pick and choose the best LED light panel for your needs.

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

The post The best LED light panels of 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Fositan Photo Box		SEE IT
Best kit		Godox LST40		SEE IT
Best value		Neewer Photo Studio Light Box		SEE IT

A photo light box—otherwise known as a light tent or shooting tent—can make product photography a much faster and simpler process. These little boxes are essentially small studios with built-in backgrounds and light diffusion that creates even, hot-spot-free illumination on just about any object you can fit inside. They provide a professional look that’s easy to replicate. It makes a big difference if you’re trying to get into selling things on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or any other online exchange. There are plenty of options on the market and some of them perform much better than others. We’ve curated this list of the best photo light boxes for simple, efficient still-life shooting.

• Best overall: Fositan Photo Box
• Best kit: Godox LST40
• Best value: Neewer Photo Studio Light Box
• Best portable: Neewer 24” x 24” portable
• Best for product photography: Ortery 2D PhotoBench 100

How we picked the best photo light boxes

I have been writing about and reviewing camera and photography equipment since 2008 for Popular Photography and a variety of other outlets. I’ve also sold tons of stuff online since the early 2000s. I curated this list based on personal experience, editorial reviews, user feedback, and spec comparisons. 

I emphasized models that include their own sources of illumination and allow for swappable backdrops for extra versatility. We looked for rugged construction without making the entire package too heavy and hard to move.

The best photo light boxes: Reviews & Recommendations

Best overall: Fositan Photo Box

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Why it made the cut: With lots of room, built-in light strips, included backdrops, and multiple shooting angles, this setup has everything most photographers need.

Features:

• Size: 35” x 35”
• Light included? Yes
• Backgrounds: Interchangeable (four included)

Pros:

• Includes everything you need
• Stepless dimming with two light strips
• Durable construction
• Multiple shooting angles from the front and top
• Interchangeable backdrops with four included.

Cons:

• Bulky

Lined with reflective fabric, this photo light box includes a pair of LED strips that provide even illumination across just about any object that fits inside. The large 35-inch interior offers plenty of room, even for larger objects. The kit comes with four different backgrounds, including black, white, blue, and orange. You can also add more background color options to the setup with fabric or paper.

The included lights offer surprisingly powerful and color-accurate illumination that spreads evenly across the subject. It’s technically portable because all of the gear fits into a single long carrying case. But, it weighs more than 16 pounds, so it’s not the easiest thing to lug around. 

Black outer walls make this box opaque, so you’re reliant on the interior lights for illumination. That doesn’t leave a lot of room for experimenting with lighting, but it does make the photographic process extremely simple and efficient. You can dim the lights, however, so there is some element of control. 

Multiple holes allower for various angles on the subject from the front and from the top. That’s handy if you don’t want to keep reaching inside the box to rotate the object to get different angles. 

Best kit: Godox LST40

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Why it made the cut: With three strip lights and a compact frame, this 16-inch box is great if you just want to get started photographing small objects quickly. 

Features:

• Size: 16 inches
• Light included? Yes
• Backgrounds: White

Pros:

• Cheap
• Easy to assemble
• Three lights provide even illumination
• Access through front and top

Cons:

• May be too small for some objects

This affordable box comes with three LED strips that throw a blanket of even illumination over just about any subject that fits inside. The box itself only measures 16 cubic inches, so it’s not huge. That’s plenty of room for small objects like jewelry, video games, or even cameras. 

The included white backdrop provides an even, seamless field of white against which your object will stand out. An in-line dimmer allows each LED strip to change its power level independently. That simplifies the process of tweaking the lighting setup to match a specific object. It’s portable and comes with a carry bag, but building it is somewhat labor-intensive, so you won’t want to move it around too much. 

White and black backdrops come with this box, but you can cut custom colors of your own and place them inside if you want something custom. 

This is a fairly basic setup, but it has everything required for basic product shots.

Best value: Neewer Photo Studio Light Box

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This kit includes some surprising features at this price point, including ample LEDs and swappable backdrops.

Features:

• Size: 16 inches
• Light included? Yes
• Backgrounds: Swappable (four included)

Pros:

• Includes everything you need
• Swappable backdrops
• Lots of LEDs for even lighting
• Multiple shooting ports
• Larger version available if you need more room.

Cons:

• Laborious to put together

Neewer has a reputation for making surprisingly capable photo accessories for almost ridiculously low prices. This light box comes with everything required to start shooting still life and product photos. The 16-inch box isn’t huge, but you can step up to a 24-inch model if you need more room. 

The sturdy sides are opaque, which lets the internal LED arrays provide an even stream of light across the object inside. It comes with four useful background colors, but you can easily cut more from paper, fabric, or whatever else you want to use. 

Flaps allow photographers to shoot from the front or the top of the item to give several viewpoints without having to rotate it. The lights are dimmable so you can tweak a little from subject to subject. 

This is a great starter kit for someone just getting into ecommerce.

Best portable: Neewer 24” x 24” portable

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Why it made the cut: It folds up like a collapsible reflector so it’s exceptionally easy to carry.

Features:

• Size: 16 inches
• Light included? No
• Backgrounds: White

Pros:

• Translucent sides offer more creative freedom
• Exceptionally easy to carry around
• Comes with a travel case
• Sets up very easily

Cons:

• Lights not included

You don’t always need fancy light arrays to provide your illumination. This translucent box surrounds a subject with diffusion material. Then, photographers can add their own light, whether it’s natural from the outdoors or artificial from hot lights and flashes. 

Because it doesn’t rely on included or built-in lights, this box offers a lot more creative freedom than some others on the list. You can get really creative with flashes, natural light, or mixing both. It comes with four backdrops, including black, white, blue, and red. Openings allow for shooting from the front or from the top. 

When the shoot is over, simply twist up the metal frame like you would with a collapsible reflector. The whole package fits into a carrying case roughly the size of a pizza. This model allows photographers to close the front panel and shoot through a small slit in order to minimize reflections. That can make a big difference when shooting something very reflective. 

Best for product photography: Ortery 2D PhotoBench 100

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Why it made the cut: If you’re looking to get into super-high-end jewelry shooting, this is the (very expensive) ticket.

Features:

• Size: 23.6 inches
• Light included? Yes
• Backgrounds: 

Pros:

• Super-professional features make shooting tons of images easy
• Computer integration allows for large previews in a hurry
• Software features include automatically removing backgrounds
• Quickly send to image editing programs or the internet
• Very burly and tough

Cons:

• Extremely expensive

If you’re looking to start a professional e-commerce business or you’re selling hundreds of items a week, then an expensive pro setup like this may be worth the considerable investment. This box integrates with a computer and either a Canon or Nikon digital camera. The computer controls the camera and lighting. It allows for shooting from the front or from the top of the subject. 

It’s not terribly flexible. It’s meant for turning out a lot of high-quality product shots on a white background with minimal tweaking and downtime. It offers extremely even lighting from the front, bottom, and back of the box. 

As the high price suggests, this isn’t for casual sellers, but bigger operations with extremely high volume. 

Things to consider when shopping for the best photo light boxes

Before we get to the specific picks, here are some terms and features you should understand before you head out into the market. Understanding these variables will help you choose the right model for your workflow.

Size

Choosing the right size photo light box can be tricky. You want enough room for the biggest items you want to shoot, but you don’t want to take up an entire room in your house with the setup. We recommend going bigger than you think you might need because extra space can save you a lot of time that you might otherwise spend photoshopping your backdrop later on. 

If you’re worried about space, a collapsible model that breaks down easily can help you save a ton of room when not in use.

Lighting

Some models will come with built-in lights that integrate into the structure of the light box. Others simply provide walls made of diffusion material and a background. You’ll have to decide which works better for you. 

Those with integrated lights typically make setup simpler and easier. You don’t have to worry about experimenting with light placement or intensity because that’s pre-determined by the gear. There are downsides, however, You get less control over your lighting and if one of the integrated lights breaks, it may be hard to replace.

Stand alone boxes give you the most creative freedom, but they’re also better for more advanced users.

Backgrounds

Your object needs something to sit on. Some photo light boxes allow for interchangeable backgrounds made of plastic, paper or fabric. Others rely on built-in white backgrounds that don’t come out. If you never plan on using creative backgrounds, simple may be better for you. It’s also possible to cut paper backdrops or even poster boards (in a pinch) to make creative backgrounds for yourself.

Shooting positions

Most product photography happens from a relatively straight-on angle, which works thanks to an opening in the front of the box. Some more advanced boxes will allow for different shooting angles through holes in the top or the sides of the enclosure. If you only ever plan on shooting basic product shots, a hole in the front should be fine. If you want more creative freedom, look for extra openings.

Portability

Portable light boxes often fold up on metal frames like collapsible reflectors. Other portable models don’t break down as easily, but all of the components fit nicely into a convenient carrying case. The most elaborate setups take time and effort to break down and setup so you’ll want to leave them where they are once you have everything dialed in. The permanent setups typically offer more room and flexibility, which is great if you have room to keep it set up. Portable models typically offer sparse features to facilitate easy transport.

FAQs

Final thoughts about the best photo light boxes

• Best overall: Fositan Photo Box
• Best kit: Godox LST40
• Best value: Neewer Photo Studio Light Box
• Best portable: Neewer 24” x 24” portable
• Best for product photography: Ortery 2D PhotoBench 100

We chose the Fositan Photo Box as our best overall photo light box. It offers a solid selection of features with a sturdy build at a reasonable price. Other options provide more flexibility when it comes to creative lighting, but we value simplicity and efficiency above all else with setups like this.

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

The post The best photo light boxes for 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best heavy duty setup		Manfrotto 2961D Deluxe Autopole Expan Kit		SEE IT	A great setup for those working in studios.
Best Backdrop for Tabletop Photography		Neewer 20×20 inches Tabletop Photography Lightbox		SEE IT	Perfect for taking product images right on your table.
Easiest to Set Up		Neewer Pro Stainless Steel Heavy Duty C Stand		SEE IT	These C Stands make backdrop setup quick and easy.

A backdrop stand may not seem like the most exciting piece of photography equipment, but it’s the backbone of any studio. If you are looking to shoot pro portraits against seamless paper or easily hang a cloth backdrop, investing in the best backdrop stands you can afford will keep your shoots running smoothly. 

Even if you’re not a studio shooter, you have a wide variety of backdrop stands from which to choose. They can handle everything from on-location portrait sessions to event coverage. Hanging your backdrop from a stand, rather than taping it to the wall, means that while you are shooting you don’t need to worry about the backdrop falling unexpectedly. Gaff tape is great, but it shouldn’t be holding up your backdrop.

• Best overall: Neewer Pro Stainless Steel Heavy Duty C Stand
• Best portable: Neewer Photo Studio
• Best for tabletop photography: Neewer 20×20 inches Tabletop Photography Lightbox
• Best heavy duty: Manfrotto 2961D Deluxe Autopole Expan Kit
• Best budget: BDDFOTO Photo Video Background Stand

The best backdrop stands: Reviews & Recommendations

Best overall Neewer Pro Stainless Steel Heavy Duty C Stand

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C Stands are a photo studio staple, and although they are typically used for holding lights, they are a great way to easily set up a backdrop as well. These stainless steel C Stands are durable enough to hold fresh rolls of seamless paper or heavier cloth backdrops, have a max height of 11ft. The turtle base makes it easy to flop a sandbag over the stand to keep it secure. You will need two of these to hang a full-sized roll of seamless, some clamps to secure it from the top once it’s rolled out, and gaff tape to secure the edge of the paper, but it’s a slightly more cost-effective than an autopole system, a lot more versatile. You can set it up solo or bring it on location if you leave ample time in the schedule and don’t mind a little lifting.

Best portable: Neewer Photo Studio

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Neewer’s backdrop stand kit comes with a carrying bag, backdrop clips, and three different colors of backdrops—making it a great affordable package for photographers who are just getting started. The stand is made of aluminum alloy and is adjustable up to 8.5ft tall and 9.8ft wide, the cross bar is made of 4 sections which makes it easy to adjust the width of the stand. We wouldn’t recommend putting a fresh roll of seamless paper on this backdrop stand, it’s better suited for lightweight fabrics, but it can handle a roll that’s near the end of its life. Luckily, this kit comes with three lightweight backdrops to get you started.

Best for tabletop photography: Neewer 20×20 inches Tabletop Photography Lightbox

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A compact setup for smartphone shooters looking to sell their wares online or the photographer shooting small products. This backdrop stand tabletop kit comes with four fabric backdrops, four mini LED lights, a set of gel filters, and a stand for your smartphone. The stand is actually a foldable lightbox that folds into a compact case, making this a great option for shooters who are crunched on space. This tiny setup obviously doesn’t make sense for shooting portraits, but if you are the kind of shooter that deals with lots of small products it’s an excellent, easy-to-use solution. You can finally start that eBay store selling knick knacks.

Best heavy duty: Manfrotto 2961D Deluxe Autopole Expan Kit

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Manfrotto is one of the most trusted brands in the photo space and the company’s  Autopole system is an excellent choice for shooters who are primarily working in a studio. The autopoles securely wedge between the floor and the ceiling. They offer an expandable height of 6.5 feet to 11.4 feet—making it an excellent choice for a studio space. 

Best budget: BDDFOTO Photo Video Background Stand

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Don’t expect this budget backdrop stand to last a lifetime, but if you are looking for something lightweight, easy to use and your backdrops aren’t particularly heavy—you really can’t beat the price on this one. This backdrop stand is adjustable from 2.3ft to 6.6ft in height and has a 4 piece cross bar that can be set up between 5ft to 10ft. It can only hold up to 5.29 lbs of weight though, so this is a system that you will want to use with lightweight cloth or vinyl backdrops, rather than fresh rolls of seamless paper. It breaks down small for easy storage in its compact carrying case. Don’t forget the sandbags if you intend to shoot with this one.  

Things to consider when looking at the best backdrop stands

Backdrop stands come in a variety of materials, sizes, and price points, and considering where you will be using the stand most often will help you consider what stand is best for you. If you are primarily working in a studio situation and have assistants working under you, you can’t beat the flexibility of an Autopole system. If you are a studio shooter who often works alone, investing in two solid C stands might be a better option.

If you are a photographer who regularly travels to weddings or events and is in need of a step-and-repeat or photo booth style set up, a collapsible backdrop stand that you build on site will probably serve your needs better. You’ll appreciate the portability when it’s time to pack up.

Pay close attention to what material your backdrop stands are made of though—a stand made of stainless steel or aluminum alloy will be stronger and more durable than a lighter weight model.

Other things to consider when shopping for a backdrop stand

As with many pieces of pro gear, the most expensive backdrop stand isn’t necessarily the best one for your specific needs. Full-sized backdrop stands can range anywhere from $30 to $500 dollars, but there is a significant range in quality that you will find online. The most expensive backdrop stands are a durable and excellent choice for studio shooting, especially if you are a photographer who regularly shoots with seamless paper. They are, however, often heavy and bulky, which makes them less than ideal for shooting on location.

If you are the kind of photographer who is typically shooting in the field, something collapsible may be a better option. Collapsible backdrop stands can be small enough for a single headshot or large enough to fit several people. They also come in a variety of color and pattern options. Although a lightweight option might seem like the go-to choice, if you are planning to hang heavy cloth backgrounds or heavy rolls of seamless paper from it, you will likely find yourself replacing it after only a few shoots. Many of the lightweight collapsible backdrop stands are really better suited for hanging a thin cloth backdrop or a vinyl step and repeat backdrop. You really don’t want your setup collapsing mid-shoot. It’s bad for the pictures and your insurance rates.

Regardless of the backdrop stand that you choose you will want to invest in some gaff tape, clamps and sand bags to keep your backdrop upright. Sandbags are particularly important if you are shooting outside with a collapsible backdrop stand to keep a strong gust of wind from taking your backdrop away from the set. An outdoor backdrop is basically a sail from a sailboat just waiting to take off with a gust of wind. 

Gaff tape will help you secure your seamless paper to the ground, while clamps will keep the top of your paper from unraveling. Read on to learn more about some of our favorite options for hanging backdrops.

The Expan system holds up to three rolls of paper, and a gear drive chain on the side of the rolls allows shooters to easily roll and unroll seamless papers. The system has a max weight capacity of 22 lbs, although we wouldn’t recommend keeping your seamless papers hanging from the stand when not in use because they can form slight bends that show up in photos. If you are a busy studio shooter you can’t go wrong with this system.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best backdrop stands

A backdrop stand is an excellent way for taking your studio or event photography to the next level. A solid backdrop stand will allow you to eliminate distracting elements from your background so that the focus is on your subjects. Don’t forget your roll of gaff tape, sandbags, and a set of clamps—three helpful photo accessories to make sure you can set your backdrops up with ease.

The post The best backdrop stands in 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

There are already lots of great gear roundups for beginners and photographers on a budget. The strobes, kits and LED panels below fall into another category entirely. The gear featured here is for professional photographers who want to invest in the best possible lighting equipment on the market without flinching when they see the price tag. The key word here is “invest.” No need to question quality, reliability or performance, the gear below delivers to the highest standard on all fronts.

Profoto D2 1000 Monolight

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The Profoto D2 is the brand’s flagship monolight, offering 1000Ws of power with 10 stops of output control in 1/10 or full stop increments, flash durations as short at 1/50000s (t0.5), recycle time of 0.03 to 1.2 seconds, and a burst mode that can fire up to 20 flashes per second. Additionally, you get Through the Lens (TTL) metering, High Speed Sync (HSS) support that allows you to use the flash at shutter speeds up to 1/8000s, and extremely consistent color temperature (+/- 20K) from flash to flash. The Profoto D2 1000 AirTTL is not battery-powered like the brand’s B1X or B10 monolights, but this allowed Protofo to pack much more power into a light that’s still completely self-contained.

Broncolor Siros 800 L Monolight

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The Siros 800 S is the most powerful battery-powered monolight Broncolor makes, delivering 800Ws of power while still promising 220 full-power flashes per charge. The Siros 800 S offers 9 stops of power control in either 1/10th or full stop increments, a recycle time of 0.03 to 2.7 seconds, and a minimum flash duration of 1/7400 of a second (t0.5). The flash also supports HSS up to 1/8000s as long as you’re using an RFS2.2 trigger. It’s not quite as fast or powerful as the Profoto D2, but if you need the convenience and versatility of a battery-powered monolight without sacrificing much power, the Broncolor Siros 800 S is the way to go.

Profoto B10 Plus Duo

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Smaller than anything else in this power range, the Profoto B10 Plus boasts 500Ws of power with 10 stops of control, a recycle time of 0.05 to 2.5 seconds, TTL support and HSS up to 1/8000s, all inside a housing that’s only 9.3 inches long and weighs just 4.2 lbs with the battery and stand adapter attached. The flash can fire up to 200 full-power flashes on a single charge and, as a bonus, the built-in modeling lamp is both brightness and color temperature adjustable, outputting up to 2500 lumens with a CRI of 90-96. The Profoto B10 Plus Duo Kit packs two of these monolights into the Profoto Core BackPack S along with two batteries, two chargers, two power cables, and a stand adapter for each.

Westcott Flex Cine Peter Hurley Kit

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The Westcott Flex Cine LED lights are high-output, flexible LED mats that have become popular with photographers who occasionally trade in their strobes for continuous lights. Each mat is fully dimmable and daylight balanced at 5600K, with an impressive CRI rating of up to 96. The flexible mats can be used as they are, or you can mount them to Westcott’s lightweight Flex Cine frames so you can attach them to light stands, add diffusion material, and use them as a standard LED panels. The Westcott Flex Cine Peter Hurley Kit was designed for professional headshot photographers, and includes three 1 x 2-foot Flex Cine Daylight Mats with Flex Cine frames, two Scrim Jim Cine full-stop 2-layer diffusion scrims, dimmers, AC power adapters, shoulder straps, mounting hardware, and a roller bag tailor-made for this particular kit.

Broncolor Siros 400 L Outdoor Kit

The battery-powered Siros 400 L monolight at the core of this kit offers 400Ws of power with 9 stops of adjustment in 1/10th or full stop increments, a recycle time of 0.03 to 1.2 seconds, and a minimum flash duration of 1/11300 of a second (t0.5). We really wish Broncolor had packed about 100Ws more power into this monolight, but to their credit, the drop in power allowed them to squeeze an impressive 440 full-power flashes per charge out of the battery. At 12.6 inches long and weighing 6.8 lbs without the battery, it’s much larger and heavier than the Profoto B10 Plus, but it’ll last almost twice as long in the field. The Broncolor Siros 400 L Outdoor Kit is an all-in-one kit that includes two of these monolights, their batteries, one charger, one silver/black umbrella, one softbox with adapter ring, one sync cable, and a convenient roller bag.

The post The best high-end lighting gear appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

For Canon shoters		Canon Speedlite 430EX III-RT Flash		SEE IT	A great introduction to Canon’s flash system.
For Nikon shooters		Nikon SB-700 AF Speedlight		SEE IT	This is a go-to for Nikon photographers.
For Sony shooters		Sony External Flash with Wireless Radio Control		SEE IT	Sony’s homegrown flash system includes radio triggering.

A detachable camera flash, also known as a speedlite, can change the way you approach photography. It’s one of the first accessories many shooters buy, but it makes a huge difference. Although many entry-level cameras come with a built-in flash, if you’ve recently invested in a more pro-grade camera body—like the Sony A1—you have probably noticed the lack of built-in flash. The best detachable camera flashes will give you more control and allow you to take more creative approaches to lighting. Once you’ve mastered a single flash, you can add more to your repertoire and start placing lights around the scene. It’s easy to get hooked. 

• Best for Canon Shooters: Canon Speedlite 430EX III-RT Flash
• Best for Nikon Shooters: Nikon SB-700 AF Speedlight
• Best for Sony Shooters: Sony External Flash with Wireless Radio Control
• Best High-End: Profoto A10 On/Off Camera Flash Kit
• Best Budget: Godox TT600 Camera Flash

The best detachable camera flashes: Reviews & Recommendations

Best for Canon Shooters: Canon Speedlite 430EX III-RT Flash

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This is a great starter-speedlite. It offers a zoom flash head with coverage from 24-105mm and radio compatibility. The 430EX III-RT features a built-in catch light panel, a dot-matrix display, and a multi-dial that makes it easy to operate on the go. It has a 6-stop range with increments as small as ⅓ of a step and has a recycling time of 0.1 to 3.7 seconds. If you are a Canon shooter who is just getting started with flash photography this is an excellent tool to add to your gear kit. You can add more Canon detachable camera flashes to the system down the line.

Best for Nikon Shooters: Nikon SB-700 AF Speedlight

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The SB-700 can be set up as a remote that can control other Nikon flashes, making it a great tool for photographers who want to explore off-camera flash photography. The Nikon SB-700 comes with filters for incandescent and fluorescent lighting situations. It offers three different illumination patterns to give photographers more control over the light output from the flash. In commander mode, the SB-700 can control off-camera flashes in two groups and one of four channels, plus features quick A:B ratio wireless control for speedy setups. The flash runs on four AA batteries and has a recycle time of 2.5-3.5 seconds.

Best for Sony Shooters: Sony External Flash with Wireless Radio Control

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Sony’s flash has a 2.4 GHz radio transceiver that allows it to operate as a commander or a remote, it can support up to 15 flashes in five groups on one of 14 channels. It has full support for Sony’s metering system and is compatible with cameras across the Sony line. It has a recycle time of 1.7 sec, can fire up to 220 per fully charged set of batteries, and comes with green and amber color filters for balancing light. It features two memory settings so that users can save their setups and quickly pull them back up again.

Best High-End: Profoto A10 On/Off Camera Flash Kit

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This unit pricy unit mimics the look and performance of Profoto’s monolights and studio strobes. The A10 works with the Profoto app and Bluetooth technology for a button-free experience. Because it’s controlled through an app instead of a traditional trigger setup, it can work with any kind of camera. The round flash head gives users a natural light fall off, it’s powered by a rechargeable Li-Ion battery, and delivers 450 flashers per charge. It’s compatible with Profoto Air, AirTTL, and Connect triggers too, so if you are already a Profoto user, this one of the best camera flashes to add to your collection.

Best Budget: Godox TT600 Camera Flash

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Godox (or Flashpoint if you are buying from Adorama) has been a reliable and budget-friendly lighting option for photographers for a number of years now. And the Godox TT660 is no different. This light has built-in 2.4G wireless transmission, an illuminated LCD panel, and an automatic function to prevent flash overheating. Use it with the X1 TTL flash trigger to control manual output and fire remotely. It can shoot about 230 flashes on a full battery, and features high-speed sync when it’s used with a wireless transmitter trigger up to 1/8000s. This one even comes with a set of gels to get even more creative with your lighting capabilities. 

Things to consider when buying the best detachable camera flahes

Unlike built-in pop up flashes a detachable flash will allow you to control the intensity and angle of the light that is emitted from it. By simply turning the flash head around, you can bounce light off of the back wall or the ceiling. That creates a much softer, more flattering light in many cases than a direct blast. Wedding and event photographers can often rely entirely on a bounced flash to cover an entire room. 

Detachable flashes are smaller and less expensive than studio strobes, making them a great lighting tool for bringing on location. Your camera’s built-in flash, on the other hand, typically won’t have enough power to compete with the sun in bright conditions. 

Get the flash off of the camera

To use most mid-range detachable camera flashes you will need to invest in a transmitter and receiver to control the flash or an off-camera flash cord. These tools will allow you to control the flash even when it isn’t attached to the top of your camera. 

Transmitters will allow you to control multiple detachable flashes right from your camera. The flexibility makes them great for setting up low-cost portrait lighting solutions. With multiple strobes, you can light everything from dark interiors to bright exteriors shots that need strong fill. 

The best flashes have transmitters built-in so you can use them to control other remote flashes within a certain range. 

Get extra batteries

If you are planning to shoot with a detachable camera flash make sure to bring some extra batteries along. Many detachable flashes and transmitters run on multiple AA batteries. You can use rechargeable batteries to save money because lights typically chew through power quickly. 

Even if you typically use rechargeables, it’s worth having a set of standard batteries in your bag, just in case you run out of rechargeable juice and need backups. 

Some manufacturers offer flash units with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. Those cells typically offer many pops per charge, but they cost more and typically aren’t as simple to swap. 

Should I buy a first-party flash or a third-party flash?

Camera companies typically manufacture their own detachable camera flash systems designed to work with its own gear. Canon, Nikon, Sony, and all the other big-name camera companies sell camera flashes that come in a variety of different power levels. Higher-end flashes typically offer faster recycle times, emit more light, and connect wirelessly over longer distances. A high-end flash will typically be a few hundred dollars more than a mid-range option. 

If you are looking for the best speedlite, a third-party flash can be an appealing option. Godox is one of the most popular third-party brands for lighting equipment. You can often save even more money buying several units at a time. If you are planning to use a third-party flash make sure that you are purchasing the version that was designed to work with your camera and a compatible transmitter. 

If money is no issue, a high-end third-party flash like the one made by Profoto might be what you are looking for. Profoto’s speedlight features a unique round flash head for light fall off that is similar to what you get with their high-end strobes and monolights. They’re powerful and create beautiful light with short flash durations, so they’re good for freezing action.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best detachable camera flashes

Ultimately the best detachable camera flashes are one of the easiest ways to control the light and a lower-cost way to experiment than using studio strobes. A detachable flash is a must-have photography accessory when you are just starting out and building your gear collection. Learning to use a detachable flash will teach you a lot about the way that light works and how lighting conditions play a big role in the aesthetics of photography.

The post The best detachable camera flashes of 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

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Best overall		Flashpoint XPLOR 600 Monolight		SEE IT	A powerful strobe with a built-in battery and receiver.
Best for studios		Profoto B10 Plus 500/500 AirTTL Duo Monolight Kit		SEE IT	Profoto’s legendary light quality in compact form.
Best budget		Neewer 700W Socket Light Lighting Kit		SEE IT	Everything you need to get started learning to light.

Light is crucial when it comes to portrait photography. Shooting during golden hour sunset or having access to a large window are both great tools for harnessing the power of the sun when shooting portraits, but sometimes the weather isn’t going to be on your side. The best portrait lighting kits will go a long way in improving the creative control you have as a photographer when shooting portraits. 

These lighting kit setups will help you control the light, so you can feel confident shooting portraits regardless of location or what time of day you might be shooting. These are some of the best portrait lighting kits and lights for shooting.

• Best overall: Flashpoint XPLOR 600 Monolight
• Best for studios: Profoto B10 Plus 500/500 AirTTL Duo Monolight Kit
• Best budget: Neewer 700W Socket Light Lighting Kit
• Best LED lights for photography: Neewer 2 Packs Dimmable Bi-Color 480 LED Lights
• Best portable LED lights: Lume CubePanel Pro LED Light

How we picked the best portrait lighting kits

When selecting our picks for best lights and lighting kits we considered price, brand recognition, size and style of lighting tool. 

The monolights listed in this story are more expensive options and often require photographers to build their own kit by buying modifiers and light stands, but ultimately we believe these lights are more reliable when shooting portraits in the studio or on location. When shopping for lights paying more up-front often means getting a product that will serve your needs for much longer. 

The continuous lights in this story were more often sold as package deals. Both of the Neewer selects are low-cost options that are great for either beginners or photographers who are looking for something inexpensive. Ultimately these lights offer less flexibility than the monolights, give photographers less control and won’t last as long as higher priced alternatives. The Lumecube LED light demonstrates just how far LED technology has come in recent years. This pocket-sized LED panel won’t be ideal for shooting full body portraits, but can be a great way to pop some creative color on a tighter portrait sitter.

Best portrait lighting kits: Reviews and Recommendations

Best overall: Flashpoint XPLOR 600 Monolight

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Why it made the cut: Flashpoint’s XPLOR 600 Monolights are a fast and reliable tool for inside the studio or on location, plus they are a fraction of the price of other battery-powered strobes. 

Specs:

• High Speed Sync up to 1/80000 seconds
• Built-in 2.4G wireless
• 500 full-power flashes per charge 
• Recycle time of 0.01-2.5 second when fully charged

Pros:

• Affordable compared to other monolights
• 600w lights with 9 steps of power adjustment
• Built-in wireless receiver compatible with Canon or Nikon
• Fast 0.01 to 2.5 sec recycle time 

Cons: 

• Not sold as a kit, have to purchase stands separately 
• Built-in wireless receiver not compatible with non Canon or Nikon cameras

Flashpoint’s XPLOR 600 Monolights is one of our favorite mid-level monolights on the market. Although you will have to purchase light stands and light modifiers separately, the XPLOR 600 is the best portable portrait lighting kit for a photographer looking to build out a studio lighting kit. 

These lights offer 600 watts of power, 500 full power flashes time with a recycle time of 0.01-2.5 seconds on a fully charged battery, and offer a stable 5600K color temperature. Built in 2.4 G wireless transmission is stable up to 80M away and has high-speed sync of up to 1/80000 seconds, including first curtain sync and second curtain sync.

The battery-operated lights come with a battery, flashtube, lampshade, charger adapter, power cable, Bowens mount reflector, and a custom carrying case. These lights are an excellent place to start when building out the best portrait lighting kit. 

Best for studios: Profoto B10 Plus 500/500 AirTTL Duo Monolight Kit

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Why it made the cut: Profoto’s B10 Plus Monolights offer a powerful 500-watt output in a compact 4.2 lbs monolight, and are compatible with other Profoto lights and accessories. 

Specs:

• Lightweight, only 4.2 lbs 
• TTL and HSS capabilities
• 200 full power flashes and recycle time of 0.05-2.5 second when fully charged

Pros:

• Compact size, about the length of a 70-200mm lens
• Integrated continuous light in addition to strobe option
• Adjustable color temperature 

Cons: 

• Expensive
• Must buy light stands separately 

Profoto products are one of the most highly regarded lighting products in the industry and these compact 500-watt lights made a big splash when they hit the market. The Profoto B10 Plus is about the size of a 70-200mm lens, making them some of the smallest monolights currently available. With the addition of two light stands and some modifiers, you will be ready to shoot portraits in the studio or on location. 

The lights offer 200 full power flashes with a recycle time of 0.05-2.5 seconds when fully charged. The B10 Plus also features an integrated continuous light with adjustable color temperature, making these a great tool for video shooters as well. 

The lights are compatible with any of the light-shaping tools from the Profoto lineup and have an intuitive interface to get you started shooting fast. If money is no issue, you can’t go wrong with the Profoto B10 Plus, the best studio portrait kit.

Best budget: Neewer 700W Socket Light Lighting Kit

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Why it made the cut: A great choice for beginners, Neewer’s 700W all-in-one lighting kit allows you to explore portrait lighting techniques without breaking the bank. 

Specs:

• All-in-One Kit
• Continuous Lighting
• Includes 24×24 softboxes

Pros:

• Inexpensive kit, great for beginning photographers
• Includes bulbs, softboxes, lighting stands and carrying case
• E27 socket makes it compatible with all types of bulbs for versatile lighting

Cons: 

• No wireless option, must be plugged in

Using lights while shooting portraits can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Neewer’s 700W socket light kit is simple to use, has a non-threatening price tag, and is a great starter kit to learn the way that light can change the mood of a portrait. 

The 700W socket light kit comes with two 85W 5500K low-operating temperature light bulbs, although the E27 socket means you can screw in any color temperature or color of bulb you desire. 

This kit comes with softboxes, lighting stands, and a carrying case as well. They require an outlet to operate—so these aren’t going to be ideal for working on location and photographers looking to stretch their creativity will likely soon grow tired of the simplicity of this kit, but if it’s a low cost basic lighting setup you are looking for this is the best budget portrait lighting kit for you.   

Best LED lights for photography: Neewer 2 Packs Dimmable Bi-Color 480 LED Lights

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Why it made the cut: These dimmable, bi-color LED lights offer professional quality continuous light, for a fraction of the price, making them an excellent choice for new photographers or videographers. 

Specs:

• Variable color temperature from 3200~5600K
• Dimmable Bi-color light 
• Powered by AC adapter or NP-F550 NP-F970 Sony batteries 

Pros:

• Diffusers, stands and carrying case included
• Affordable price point 
• Dimmable bi-color lights with variable color temperature from 3200-5600K
• Can be used wirelessly 

Cons: 

• Can’t dial in exact color temperatures when shooting 
• Short power cords 

LED lights are well-loved by continuous light photographers and videographers and this set from Neewer is the best LED lights for photography. They’re also a great option for experienced shooters on a budget or amateurs looking to explore their options. 

This Neewer kit includes diffusers, stands and carrying cases so you will be ready to start shooting as soon as you unbox. The lights have 240 white and 240 yellow LED bulbs that create a variable color temperature between 3200-5600K. Because this is a budget LED light, you can’t dial in exact color temperatures while using them, but downloading a free light-meter app will help you approximate. 

The lights can be powered by an AC adapter or two Sony batteries (must be purchased separately)—making them a versatile option when it comes to shooting location. 

Color temperature and brightness of the light are controlled by two separate knobs on the back of the panel. A U mount bracket on the bottom of each lighting panel allows you to adjust the angle. These are decent-quality LED lights for such a low price. 

Best portable: Lume CubePanel Pro LED Light

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Why it made the cut: Lume Cube’s pocket-sized LED lights are extremely portable, making them a great choice for the portrait shooter who wants to travel light. 

Specs:

• Pocket-sized LED light
• Variable color temperature from 3000K to 5700K, with 360 RGB color options 
• Mountable to camera or on light stands

Pros: 

• Extremely compact light source
• Compatible with all types of camera brands
• Dimmable bi-color lights with variable color temperatures from 3000-5700K, with 360 RGB color options
• Versatile, great for portraits, video shoots, or vlogging 

Cons: 

• Build your own kit 

LED technology has come a long way in recent years, and Lumecube’s line of powerful pocket-sized LED lights prove it. The Lume Cube Panel Pro LED light is a super portable USB powered light that can be mounted to the top of your camera or on a lightstand. 

This LED light has a variable color temperature from 3000-5700K and 360 RGB options that can be precisely dialed in using the controls on the back of the light or the Lumbecube app. Brightness can be adjusted between 1 percent power to 100 percent in 5 percent increments. 

A compact diffuser is included with the light and through the app you can control the brightness and color temperature of multiple Lume Cube lights. If you are looking for a pocket-sized tool that has the option to introduce creative color to your portrait shoots, look no further than the Lume Cube Panel Pro LED light. Although the lights are sold individually rather than as a kit, if you are looking to build something that’s ideal for travel this pick for the best portable LED lights is a great place to start. 

Things to consider before buying the best portrait lighting kits

Shooting style

Ultimately your budget should be the number one thing to consider when purchasing portrait lights. If you are just starting out and trying to figure out how quality of light can enhance your images a set of continuous lights will serve you well. The continuous lights in this guide are all moderately priced, most of them come with included stands and diffusers and because they are always on you can see how subtle changes in light will create changes in your portraits.

Head type

If you’ve been shooting for a while and are looking to invest in more traditional studio strobes for creating portraits, you can’t go wrong with the monolights in this guide. Although these lights don’t come bundled with modifiers or light stands, that actually gives you the option to build out a customized kit that makes sense for your photography. The Flashpoint monolights are an excellent option for a shooter on a budget, but if money isn’t a barrier and your budget is sky-high we’d recommend going for the Profoto lights.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best portrait lighting kits

Investing in the best portrait lighting kits is important when it comes to portrait photography. Learning to use artificial light sources will give you more control when shooting. Although there are plenty of all-in-one lighting kits that come with stands and modifiers, if you are serious about portrait photography it’s not a bad idea to build out your own kit with quality monolights and light stands.

The post The best portrait lighting kits in 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

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British light manufacturer Rotolight has announced the SmartSoft Box—the “the world’s first intelligent electronic softbox”—as an addon for its AEOS 2 lights, according to Amateur Photographer. It’s got some neat technology that will allow photographers to adjust the diffusion, focus, and spread of their lights without having to use any other modifiers. It can even be controlled from Rotolight’s smartphone app. 

Related: Light your photos like a pro

SmartSoft Box tech

The SmartSoft Box is a $499 accessory for Rotolight’s AEOS 2 lights, which offer high-speed flash and continuous RGB lighting with 2,500 digital filters in a portable, battery-powered package. 

The SmartSoft Box adds 1.5 stops of adjustable “electronic diffusion” which photographers can use to create hard or soft light without having to use physical modifiers. They’ll be able to adjust the diffusion, focus, and spread to dial in exactly the effect they want, either with the controls on the SmartSoft Box or the Rotolight app (which also lets them adjust the color and filter of the AEOS 2 lights). 

Rotolight developed the SmartSoft technology for its Titan line of cinema lights. It’s been used on production for movies like the latest Bond film, No Time to Die, and the latest Batman film, The Batman, and TV shows by Netflix, Amazon Studios, and the British broadcaster Sky. 

It works using “crystals” (yes, really) that are naturally cloudy but turn transparent when an electric current is run through them. 

Who’s this for?

While this is undeniably cool technology, we don’t think we’ll be seeing many amateurs rocking them too soon. With the base AEOS 2 light kit starting at $1,400 and the SmartSoft Box costing an extra $500, a three-point lighting setup is going to cost as much as a secondhand car. It’s obviously aimed at professionals for whom the financial outlay is secondary to the convenience of being able to dial in every aspect of your lighting with a smartphone. 

Rod Aaron Gammons, Rotolight’s CEO, told Amateur Photographer the SmartSoft Box is “a revolution in lighting control that saves time and money for photographers and filmmakers.” He continued, saying Rotolight is ”at the cutting edge of patent-protected industry-first technologies in the lighting industry, providing our customers with unique, state-of-the-art tools that enhance creative possibilities on set.”

Award-winning commercial and fashion photographer Sam Nash (who works with Rotolight) said, “The new SmartSoft Box has revolutionized how I can control light. It simply allows me to create pictures with just one modifier that have never been possible before. It’s a game-changer in how I control light for both my commercial photography and has saved me so much time. The ease of use is phenomenal.”

How to buy a SmartSoft Box?

The SmartSoft Box is due to start shipping on August 31, 2022. You can preorder it now on Rotolight’s website for $500. To use it, you’ll also need an AEOS 2 light which is available now from $1,400.

The post Rotolight debuts the ‘world’s first’ electronic smart softbox appeared first on Popular Photography.

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Pro Choice		Profoto 47-inch reflector		SEE IT	A pro-grade model with sturdy handles.
Starter Choice		Neewar 43-inch 5-in-1		SEE IT	A great starting point with lots of flexibility.
Guide Lots of Lights		Selens 60” x 80” oval reflector		SEE IT	Huge surface area for maximum light redirection.

Photographers love light. Unfortunately, those rascally little waves/particles of illumination don’t always cooperate. The best collapsible reflectors will allow you to shape light without having to carry around complex gear that can break or run out of batteries, It’s one of the simplest, but most versatile tools you can have in your bag or around the studio. 

As the name suggests, these handy discs typically spend most of their time bouncing light onto a subject, they can do a lot more. Some offer translucent panels for creating soft, diffuse light, while others offer deep black surfaces to block unwanted rays. 

Whichever model you choose, these simple, affordable pieces of photography equipment will make a surprisingly big difference in your work once you get the hang of them. 

• Best to get started: Neewar 43-inch 5-in-1
• Best that can stand up to heavy work: Profoto 47-inch reflector
• Best for high-end headshot work: Westcott Eyelighter
• Best for guiding lots of light: Selens 60” x 80” oval reflector
• Best to throw in your bag for emergencies: Emart 24-inch 5-in-1 reflector

What to look for in the best collapsible reflectors

It’s all right there in the name. These flat discs serve to intercept light rays and send them back toward your subject. Depending on the setting, they can provide everything from a simple fill to tone down harsh shadows, to a dramatic key light consisting of lively directional illumination. 

Really anything can be a reflector when you’re out in the real world. I’ve shot portraits of bakers in the kitchen for which I used massive metal ovens as reflectors. I’ve shot portraits of volunteers for a local food bank with some lighting help from a big, white truck parked on the site. Carrying your own reflector, however, provides much more control. 

How do collapsible reflectors work?

If you’ve ever used a pop-up tent, most collapsible reflectors work on the same basic idea. A flexible metal frame around the outside of the material can bend in on itself in a specific way to create a much smaller footprint without getting much thicker.

It can take some practice to fold up the reflectors, especially when they get big enough that you have to stretch your arms out to grab both sides. I highly recommend a few folding and unfolding dry runs at your house once you get your reflector before you take it out into the wild on a shoot. It can feel embarrassing when you’re struggling to get it crammed back into that tiny bag. 

Get a stand

While many reflectors have solid handles or at least thick frames to hold onto, you can’t always be in the right place to shape light while you’re shooting. You can use a simple light stand with an A clamp to keep most reflectors securely in place. Other companies specifically sell stands for their reflectors in case you want something that looks a little more formal. 

How to pick the best collapsible reflector

You have a surprising number of options to consider when you go out reflector shopping. You’ll need to consider what color surface you want, how big it should be, and even what shape will work best. Here are some tips and suggestions to help you get the gear you need. 

Value versatility

If you’re not exactly sure what you’re looking for just yet, opt for something that gives you lots of flexibility. You want something mid-sized to start–think in the 40-inch range. That’s big enough that you can bounce light from a good distance away, but it’s not so big that the wind will try to blow it across town with every gust. 

Choose your colors

You’ll also want something that offers different colored covers. The average convertible reflector promises 5-in-1 surfaces. That typically includes a pair of dual-sided covers, as well as an inner translucent panel. 

That semi-light-permeable panel acts as a simple diffuser when it doesn’t have a cover on it. You essentially use it the same way you’d use an umbrella if the sun was your light source. It creates a much softer light than direct sunlight. 

The gold and silver sides provide a hard, lively light that’s very directional. Because the surfaces are shiny, they read like small light sources that create clearly defined shadows. The silver adds more neutral fill while the gold warms it up. 

Lastly, there’s typically a white and black cover. The white side acts as a neutral, subtle reflected light source, while the black side absorbs light and acts as what studio shooters call a flag. That black side can be handy from blocking lights from the camera to prevent flare or just keeping environmental light from creeping onto your subject in a controlled shoot. 

Best to get started: Neewar 43-inch 5-in-1

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A single reversible color contains all five different reflector colors for super-simple setups. At 43-inches across, it’s big enough to make a real difference in any scene, but you won’t feel like you’re going to dislocate your shoulders trying to get it folded back up. A sturdy loop makes it easy to attach to a camera bag with a carabiner or clip onto a stand so it will stay put while you’re busy shooting.

Seek sturdiness

While a cheap reflector will work fine in most cases, they also take a serious beating out in the field. Sticks poke them, dogs chew them. I once had a shoot on a farm where a huge pig literally bit a hole in my reflector. You never know what’s going to happen. 

Look for something with a sturdy metal frame that won’t flex too much. When shooting, you want to have a sturdy place to grab onto the reflector so the light it’s throwing doesn’t move around and ruin your shots. 

Best that can stand up to heavy work: Profoto 47-inch reflector

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The extra-heavy-duty frame on this 47-inch reflector makes it rock solid when you’re holding it on a shoot. It also has a pair of chunky, sturdy handles that give you a solid grip. It’s available in a number of two-sided options, but I like the mixture of white and what Profoto calls Sun Silver. It’s a mixture of the company’s silver and gold colors that give a slightly warm tint instead of an overwhelming gold. 

Focus on the face

Headshots require exacting technique when it comes to lighting. When you’re that up-close and personal with a subject, little technical things can make a big difference. Put that key light a little too high? Bam, raccoon eyes lost in shadow. 

A reflector can come in really handy when you’re shooting in the studio. Fill lights typically come from below or directly in front of the subject, which can make them seem very bright to the subject. Replacing them with a reflector can have a similar effect on the photo while taking it easier on your subject’s peepers. The right reflector can also help you shape light just right in a way that’s more difficult with a powered light source. 

Best for high-end headshot work: Westcott Eyelighter

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Headshot photographers used to use a series of three reflectors below a subject’s face to get an appealing wrap-around fill light. Westcott took that concept to the next level by creating a single curved reflector that can do a more consistent job at the same task. It’s built on an aluminum frame that you can take apart to transport. The head tilts so you can dial in your perfect reflector position before you get on with the rest of the session. 

Go big

Giant reflectors can be tricky to use out in the real world. Their uncanny ability to catch wind like a boat sale makes them difficult to hold still. But, if you’re shooting in the studio or you have a lot of A clamps and stands (or a sturdy assistant) to keep them still, a big reflector can be wonderful. 

Because they come up to 80-inches in length, large reflectors can do a great job blocking harsh overhead light over a reasonably large area. They can also throw light back at a subject’s fully body if you position them carefully.

Best for moving lots of light: Selens 60” x 80” oval reflector

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This massive oval reflector has three durable handles to help you keep it under control. Use the black side to block even the gnarliest sun or take off the cover completely to create a huge scrim for overhead soft light. It’s so big that you could even have a subject stand in front of it to get some headshots with a nice, clean backdrop. 

The best collapsible reflectors are the ones you have with you

These things fold up small enough that you could probably cram one in your camera bag and take it with you most everywhere without really feeling it. While big reflectors are more versatile in most situations, a smaller version can fit places its wider siblings can’t. They’re also much more subtle. I’ve shot some magazine jobs in restaurants while they were open. Shooting flash was out of the question, but unfurling a massive reflector seemed just as disruptive. My small reflector came in handy to give me a perfect little kick light on an adorable little cupcake that ended up running as a full page in a food magazine.

Best to throw in your bag for emergencies: Emart 24-inch 5-in-1 reflector

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For less than $15, this reflector can sit just about anywhere you might need it in a pinch. Stuff it into a camera bag or leave it in your car. When, when you need it, you can bust it out and get a full 24-inch reflective surface to help toss light where you want it. Despite its small size, you still get all the color options and the loop for hooking it to a bag or stand. 

FAQs

Last word about the best collapsible reflectors

Light is our friend, but sometimes it’s a real jerk. The best collapsible reflectors help push it exactly where you want it without having to bust out the lighting gear. When it comes to cheap photo accessories that can help your photography, it’s hard to find something better than good reflector.

The post Best collapsible reflectors of 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

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Best shoot-through umbrella		Neewer 2-Pack White Translucent Soft Umbrella		SEE IT	These easy-to-use umbrellas light subjects evenly and are perfect for beginners.
Best light reflector		Neewer 5-in-1 Light Reflector		SEE IT	This versatile reflector lights subjects beautifully, recreates golden hour, and travels easily.
Best softbox		Impact Luxbanx Rectangular Softbox		SEE IT	Recreate window light with this easy-to-use tool.

Light is everything when it comes to photography. It’s why photographers love shooting during a golden hour sunset so much. But sometimes your shoots aren’t going to happen during that perfect hour—sometimes you get stuck shooting in harsh midday glare. Luckily, once you learn to control the light it won’t matter during what time of day you are shooting. Investing in a few key lighting modifiers and learning to use them will go a long way towards improving the professional quality of your images. Accessories like softboxes, umbrellas, beauty dishes, LED light panels, and snoots are some of the most popular light modifiers used by professional photographers because they allow you to control the intensity and shape of your lighting sources.

• Best shoot-through umbrella: Neewer 2-Pack White Translucent Soft Umbrella
• Best light reflector: Neewer 5-in-1 Light Reflector
• Best beauty dish: Neewer Aluminum-Standard Reflector Beauty Dish
• Best softbox: Impact Luxbanx Rectangular Softbox
• Best snoot: Neewer Conical Snoot Kit

What do light modifiers do?

Photographers use light modifiers to shape and control their light sources. Although you can absolutely make beautiful photographs without lighting modifiers, introducing them into your tool kit will give you more creative control during your photo sessions. Light modifiers can be used with speedlights, studio strobes, or continuous LED lights. Depending on what modifier you are using, it can either produce soft diffuse light or dramatic contrast lighting. Using lighting modifiers is the best way to produce photos that are light and airy—or dark and moody. 

When shopping for a light modifier, it’s important to consider what you will want your end product to look like. If you are looking for light that is very soft, your best bet is to use a large softbox or a shoot through umbrella. These light modifiers will spread your light source out to create very even light. If you are looking for moodier, intense lighting, consider a beauty dish or a snoot. These modifiers will give you a much more defined light source.

Things to consider when shopping for light modifiers

For every style of light modifier ,you will find very high-end versions and very inexpensive versions. Higher-end brands like Profoto are often designed specifically to work with Profoto Lighting equipment, while lower-end brands tend to be more universal. 

If you are just starting to experiment with light modifiers, we recommend starting with the lower-cost modifiers. The biggest difference between high-end and low-end models is their durability. If you are shooting in the studio every single day, it obviously makes sense to invest in higher-quality tools. But if you are a more casual shooter, a low-cost modifier should be enough to get you started. 

Ultimately, the brand of light modifier that you choose to use is most connected to the style of lights you are shooting with and how often you plan to shoot.

Best shoot-through umbrella: Neewer 2-Pack White Translucent Soft Umbrella

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Shoot-through umbrellas like the Neewer 2-Pack White Translucent Soft Umbrella are easy-to-use tools, making them an excellent choice for beginners. They create light that is soft and incredibly forgiving, and they light your subject evenly. Umbrellas are easy to set up, work with a wide variety of lights, and pack down small, making them great for travel. Think of them as incredibly inexpensive softboxes.

Best light reflector: Neewer 5-in-1 Light Reflector

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The Neewer 5-in-1 Light Reflector gives you the option to fill in shadows, replicate golden hour, create a bright neutral fill, or block out unwanted light and cut down on reflections—all without having to invest in a light source. This 43-inch model collapses down into a compact bag for easy travel, too. Just make sure you bring an assistant along to your shoots to help keep this reflector working as intended.

Best beauty dish: Neewer Aluminum-Standard Reflector Beauty Dish

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An excellent option for lighting faces close up, the 16-inch Neewer Aluminum-Standard Reflector Beauty Dish will define bone structure by creating a soft contrast between your highlights and your shadows. It also creates a beautiful circular catchlight in the eyes. It’s not a bad idea to use a beauty dish in conjunction with a white reflector to minimize harsh shadows underneath your model’s chin and nose. If you are interested in beauty or fashion photography, a beauty dish light modifier is a great place to start. 

Best softbox: Impact Luxbanx Rectangular Softbox

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The Impact Luxbanx Rectangular Softbox imitates the quality of light created by a large window, which is why it’s a tool favored by portrait photographers. Changing the angle and distance of this light modifier from your subject will change the quality and intensity of this light. Softboxes come in various shapes and sizes, but for a large softbox like this one, it’s best to pair it with powerful studio strobes.

Best snoot: Neewer Conical Snoot Kit

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A snoot is a specialized lighting tool that will produce hard, precise light. The is a great tool for creating moody work with a lot of contrast between your subject and the background. You can use a snoot for a spotlight effect, to create low-key lighting, as a hair light, or to add flare to an image. Often you may use a snoot in combination with other light modifiers; the Neewer Conical Snoot Kit comes with a variety of small gels which lend the ability to add creative color to your images. 

FAQs

Final thoughts about photography lighting and modifiers

Lighting modifiers allow you to control your photography light with precision, which ultimately opens the doors to unleashing your creativity. Most light modifiers are designed to work with an artificial light source like studio strobes or continuous lights, although simpler light modifiers like shoot-through umbrellas will work just fine with a compact speedlite. Many photographers choose to shoot with a variety of modifiers to better control the way in which light interacts with their subjects. When shopping for light modifiers, keep in mind what you are planning to shoot and if you are looking to create imagery that is light and airy or dark and contrasty. Take control of your photography light today by integrating lighting modifiers into your photo kit.

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