On-camera video lights are a must for any serious videographer. These lights provide an additional layer of illumination that can make or break a scene. With the wide variety of styles and sizes on the market, it’s important to understand which type of light is best suited for your needs, as well as how to properly use it.
The most common type of on-camera video light is a LED light panel. These lights come in a variety of sizes and are incredibly lightweight and portable. LED panels are also capable of producing a variety of different colors and hues, perfect for achieving a specific lighting look. However, LED lights can be quite expensive, so if you’re on a budget, you might want to consider a different type of on-camera video light, such as a monolight.
Monolights are much less expensive than LED panels, and they offer a more powerful output than LED lights. The downside to monolights is that they are not as versatile as LED panels — they don’t offer the same level of color shifting capabilities — but they can still be great tools in a videographer’s arsenal.
Finally, there are also on-camera video light kits available. These kits typically include a variety of different lights, stands, and modifiers, making them the ideal choice for someone who needs a lot of options when setting up a scene. While these kits can be expensive, they offer the most flexibility and should be considered if you have the budget.
Using on-camera video lights isn’t as easy as just plugging them in and turning them on. As with any type of lighting, proper placement and setup are essential for achieving the desired effect.
When setting up your lighting, it’s important to consider the overall look and feel of the scene you’re trying to capture. Many videographers prefer to use two on-camera video lights, one as the key source of light and the other as a fill light. It’s also important to place your lights at the right height and angle to create a more natural look.
If you’re using LED lights, it’s also important to take advantage of their ability to shift colors. For example, you could use a warmer hue to create a more intimate atmosphere, while a cooler hue would give the scene a more professional look.
Finally, it’s important to pay attention to the power settings of your lights. Depending on the size of the room and the brightness of the lights, you might need to adjust the power settings to ensure the scene looks its best.
On-camera video lights can be a great addition to any videographer’s toolkit. They provide an extra layer of illumination that can make or break a scene. With the wide variety of styles and sizes on the market, it’s important to understand which type of light is best suited for your needs, as well as how to properly use it. Whether you opt for an LED light panel, a monolight, or a full-on kit, on-camera video lights can help you create the perfect shot.
