On-Camera LED Comparison
LED lights have opened the doors to so many creative possibilities for capturing images and video. Coming in every size and shape imaginable, these diodes have changed the way we create. While large LED monolights and panels are excellent for bigger productions, there are times that less is more. On camera LEDs are a great bridge for those looking to enhance their shot without weighing themselves down. Here we break down three of ProMaster’s top on-camera LED lights - their specs, features, and best use-cases.
This little cube packs a punch! The light easily fits in the palm of your hand and can be attached to your camera with the included cold foot. Take off the cold foot and you can attach it anywhere that supports a ¼” 20 thread. No thread available? No worries! Attach the light to any metal surface with the integrated magnet.
This single diode LED produces a constant color temperature of 5600k. With the included color filters, you can quickly manipulate the output to achieve your desired look. In addition to these color filters, the light includes an array of other modifiers such as a white diffuser, barn doors, a honeycomb grid, and a snoot for controlled light direction.
You might be asking yourself where all of these modifiers can come into play with such a small light? Aside from being a great addition to vlogging setups, this light is excellent for small product photography and videography! With the included modifiers, you can easily add a spotlight to a product's logo or add a small source of backlighting to separate your product from the background.
This little light is surprisingly durable. With an IP68 waterproof rating you can fully submerge your Small Block to depths up to 33’. Not only does this provide peace of mind but opens the possibilities of what can be created.
The Chroma CL36RGB provides an excellent solution for those that need a compact light without sacrificing features and control. Although larger than the Small Block, this unit fits in nearly any camera bag with its slim profile. Coming in at a whopping 7 ounces, you won’t have to worry about it weighing down your pack either.
Each LED comes with a ¼” 20 threaded port which can be attached to the included cold foot mount for use on your camera or any tripod or flex arm that supports ¼” 20 mounting. Using the Chroma is quite easy; there are 3 controls on the side of the panel, which allow you to access all of the different lighting modes. Quickly go from bi-color mode to one of the 360 different color hues. When you’re ready to dial things up, you can utilize one of the 17 special effects to provide a unique, creative look.
Given the light output and dimensions this LED provides, it is an excellent choice for those looking to improve the look of their VLOG style recordings or presentation in virtual meetings. Similar to the Small Block, this light is an excellent addition for small product and video shoots. With the plethora of color options available and output control, you can elevate the look of your content with ease.
As a close relative to the CL36RGB, this unit shares many similar features while still providing unique design elements that make it a versatile tool. The chassis of this light differs from the CL36RGB in that it is more cubelike, allowing for 3 additional cold shoe mounts on each side of the unit. While other lights may take up your camera’s hot mount, leaving you without room for accessories, the CL33RGB grants you the ability to add a microphone or any cold shoe adaptable product.
Despite its small profile, this light offers full controllability with bi-color mode, full spectrum RGB, and 20 special effects. Better yet, you can run this light at 100% output for approximately 1 ½ hours with very little loss of brightness. This broadens the possibilities of using this light when you’re on the go. When you’re in the studio or working from home and need extended power you can continuously power the light with the included USB cable.
Concluding Thoughts
Providing both a mobile and powerful source of light that can instantly improve the look and feel of your content, on-camera LEDs have changed the way we create. With so many available use cases, these little powerhouses are an excellent addition to your kit. Check out all of ProMaster’s on-camera LED lighting online or at your local camera store.
