Vidpro Ultra-Slim LED-230 On-Camera Video Lighting Kit

We're rapidly getting to the point where led lighting will be bright enough, small enough, and priced low enough that they can be used in difficult lighting situations such as cave photography. To that end I purchased the LED-230 to get a feel for what we can expect from current modestly priced units and how far we need to go to realistically replace current flash units. I basically tried to assign an GN to the unit by using 1/100 as my fixed shutter speed and shooting at various ISO's, distances, and apertures. As you might suspect, the lower ISO's were not adequate with the LED 230. I had to go to an ISO 3200 before getting much of any flexibility. At ISO 3200 and 1/100 shutter I estimated my GN to be approx 38. This would allow you to shoot 5' at f:7.6. 10' at f:3.8, or 15' at 2.5. This was done in a living room with light walls and 8' ceiling. In a cave the reflectivity is usually significantly less, so I adjust the GN down to between 50 and 75% of the GN I obtained at home. With todays cameras set properly, I am comfortable with ISO 6400 which results in a GN of 54 before adjusting for cave reflectivity. Bottom line is we're getting close and there are already a few much pricier units out there that could be substituted for flash guns. I am already using th eLED-230 for small passages and smaller formations in some of the caves I visit. The unit is well constructed, comes with two batteries, has variable intensity, and has a hotshoe or tripod mount. So far it has held up well in the bumping and dampness it is subject to in most caves.

I love this light. It really brightens things up and is very handy to slip into my pocket to use as needed. I do wish it had a battery power indicator, though. I have two of these lights. The newest one lasts about 55 minutes with a full battery, and the older one lasts 45 minutes. There is no indication the battery is low. Bright, then OUT. Extra battery might be nice.

This LED light is very functional for either camera top or on a stand of its own. It has many uses. I personally use it for my DSLR during wedding ceremony and reception. The light can be dimmable but really is only operating at 5600 degrees. There is an attached filter set is useful but takes a moment to install. The light itself is extremely lightweight and the battery which comes with the unit was able to run entire wedding reception. It is a great value for the price and would highly recommend it unless you need to make color temperature adjustments on the Fly then you will need one with that option . Definitely worth the price. R.J.

You get a lot of light from this slim, dimmer-controlled led tool. A great improvement over the bulkier old version! Can even carry it in your pocket. A great value! WW Owens Boston MA