How to Use on Camera Lighting?

When filming or practicing photography, it is important to manage the lighting levels. A very convenient series of devices that tackle this issue are on camera lights. These are smaller lights that are usually attached directly on the camera to provide light for whatever is being photographed or filmed.

The main benefit of on camera lights is their compact and simple nature. Setting up an elaborate system of larger lights can potentially create a better scene, but that can be inconvenient and time consuming. If you are trying to film an event that would be impossible to set up beforehand or there is not room for mounted lights, an on camera light is the solution. Another benefit is their flexibility. If your conditions are going to be changing frequently, a smaller light that can be adjusted at a moment’s notice could be perfect. Of course, almost any on camera light can also be mounted on a stand to create a makeshift lighting setup.

These lights are best suited for closer pictures, such as taking a single person or small group’s picture. The most standard on camera light is a simple LED 125. These are suited for evenly lighting a single subject from less than 15 feet away. Six to eight feet will probably work best. A more powerful light, such as one up to 200 watts can be used to illuminate a scene as far away as 30 feet. Alternatively, a less powerful ring light can provide very soft light that is perfect for shooting in fashion or the music industry. These are made specifically for illuminating faces with even light that helps improve subjects’ appearances. Ring lights are incredibly lightweight and can be mounted on top of or even around the lens.

A filter can be used to diffuse the light more evenly, which is especially useful on tighter scenes. You definitely want to check for and eliminate any hotspots that the light creates. Keep in mind that a filter will cause some transmission loss, that is, the light will be less powerful. This is also true of adding any gelatin filters to add hues. However gels are usually used as an alternative to a color temperature dial. If you expect to need to adjust this aspect frequently, consider finding an on camera light that includes a color temperature dial. Getting one ranging from 3200K to 5600K will probably be enough. Some lights even have dual dials for multiple lights which allow them to be blended to suit any need you have.

Lastly, when looking for an on camera light, there are a few basic questions you should consider. Most importantly is what you will be using the light for. Do you need adjustability or power more? Think about whether you will be doing the majority of your shooting indoors or outdoors. Along with that, think about how many watts you will need. Keep in mind what power source you will need as well. Many lights are battery powered, but some will be restrained to an outlet. Lastly, think about how durable and heavy the light you are considering is. If you keep all these things in mind, you will be sure to find the light that works best for you.

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