Good lighting is the basis for any photography. If the lighting is not up to the mark and dull, then the images will be ruined no matter whether you are shooting a model or an object.
Sometimes, it has been seen that apart from natural light, you have to get an optimum balance of natural light with the help of artificial lighting to achieve the expected outcomes.
Here the role of strobe lights gains prominence. Best strobe lights for photography produce very intense flashes of light and even overpower the sun.
Strobe lighting is used to give special effects in live performances on a TV.
In this article, you will find a description of the most authentic and resourceful options that will surely help you make a worthy choice.
Table of Contents
What is the best strobe lights for photography?
Strobe lights are helpful in creative photography and are fenced by ambient light. These are a clean source of light, too intense with a short period.
GODOX AD200Pro Color Filter Kit is one of the top strobe lights that provides 500 power-packed flashes, which are the maximum in the segment.
Another benefit of this studio strobe light is that it is crafted to perform professionally between shots.
Therefore, with such a high performance, you will be undergoing a more productive photoshoot. Also, more time is devoted to capturing beautiful and realistic images.
Why AD200 Pro with BD-07 is the best brand for strobe lights for photography?
We prefer GODOX AD200Pro,Considering all things of photography the consistent output lighting, battery life and full power at the time of photography is included.
GODOX AD200Pro which is crafted to offer pocket flash to obtain a better light effect and meticulous experience while shooting.
GODOX AD200Pro strobe light is lighter in weight and portable, making it convenient for the user to handle and use it.
Top 10 Best Strobe Lights for Photography Reviews
01. AD200 Pro with BD-07 Color Filter Kit by Godox: Superior Flash Power
Features
- Excellent setup controls for a group lighting
- 4V lithium battery of 2900mAH
- In-built wireless X system of 2.4GHz
- Maximum capacity of 500 power flashes
- LED Modeling with an optional round head
- Automatic flash ready indicator
Specifications
- Brand: Godox
- Model: AD200 Pro Kit
- Weight: 5.04 pounds
- Dimensions: 15.31 x 7.87 x 4.41 inches
Description and Performance
AD200 premium strobe light provides 500 power-packed flashes, which are the highest in the segment. Apart from this, the recycling time ranges around 0.01-1.8s only.
There is also a manual range comprising of 9 stops for flexible power adjustments.
Versatile in terms of TTL compatibility, this product supports flash exposure compensation as well.
Also, the high-speed sync of 1/8000s ensures swift and uninterrupted performance.
The diverse manual outputs control the stroboscopic rate for a maximum of 90 times in addition to the above. An impressive part about this strobe light is that it is lightweight as well as portable.
These features make it easier for the user to handle it.
However, the strobe light also consists of HSS, selectivity for group mode, and reliable channel triggering. An LCD panel is there to display the status of every remote strobe.
Pros
- It contains a removable flash tube
- 360 degrees of shadowless, bright, and soft light
- Optimal directional control
Cons
- With continual use, the cycle time tends to slow down
- Quality of accessories is not exceptional
02. AD600 Pro 600WS GN87 TTL Strobe Speedlight by Godox: Best-in-class Outdoor Flash
Features
- Has an in-built wireless X system of 2.4 GHz
- Delivers 360 flashes of full-power
- Impressive recycling time of 0.01 to 0.9 seconds
- Modeling lamp of 38W
- Separate mode for color stability
- Delivers 12 consistent pops at a power output of 1/16
Specifications
- Brand: Godox
- Model: AD600 Pro
- Weight: 9.64 pounds
- Dimensions: 12.83 x 9.53 x 8.27 inches
Description and Performance
If you want to experience professional-quality outdoor flash, this is one of the best strobe lights for photography.
AD600 Pro is versatile based on compatibility; this product works well with diverse types of TTL systems.
AD600 Pro also provides up to 600Ws and nine high-functional steps for power output with a range of 1/1-1/256.
Furthermore, the power-packed 28.8V lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 2600mAH is the main highlight of this product.
AD600 Pro strobe light is capable of delivering powerful flashes at wide angles, even in outdoor locations.
Another impressive part about this product is that it has a sync mode of high-speed that offers a shutter speed of 1/8000 at a maximum. Apart from this, the flash durations range between 1/220-1/10,000 seconds.
Also, the mode for the stable color temperature regulates the color. Moreover, this assists in maintaining the temperature variations within ±75K across the full range of power.
Pros
- Fan-cooled lamp for more stable performance
- Swift and reliable functioning
- Ideal for outdoor shoot requirements
Cons
- Build-up is not much resilient
- Lacks a protective recess on the backside
03. FJ400 400Ws Strobe by Westcott: Best Portable Strobe Lights
Features
- Easy-to-remove lithium-polymer battery
- Upholds the color temperature stability of 5500K
- Flash increments of 1.0 stops
- LED modeling lamp with auto-adjust system
- Independent and functional output control
- On-board cooling fans for safety
Specifications
- Brand: Westcott
- Model: FJ400
- Weight: 17 pounds
- Dimensions: 25.5 x 19.3 x 8.4 inches
Description and Performance
AC/DC portable strobe offers a striking recycle speed of within a second. Thus, it can provide an immersive experience of 480+ flashes of full power for each charge.
What attracts the most in this strobe light is its build-up, which is relatively lightweight.
Besides, the color temperature maintenance with higher accuracy is one of the most pleasing aspects of this product. Further, the strobe light is backed with an efficiently intuitive menu system.
For exceptional performance and user-friendly application, there is an LCD color display. There are manual as well as TTL flash modes with high-speed sync or HSS of around 1/8000s.
Likewise, this strobe light provides freeze sync at a max of 1/19000s with a consistent capture of up to 20 fps.
With separate functions for the mask, delay, and auto-memory recall, this product offers power-packed integrations.
Pros
- Arrives with a diffusion dome
- Contains magnetic reflector Bowens
- Equipped with a magnetic gel set
Cons
- At times, the fan makes noise
- The strobe is quite fragile
04. 800W Photo Studio Strobe Flash and Softbox Lighting Kit by Neewer: Hard-wearing Construction
Features
- Working distance of 30 meters
- Highly versatile trigger receiver
- Flash energy customizations
- Digital dimming ranging around 1.0 to 6.0
- Easily adjustable modeling lamp
- Super resilient construction
Specifications
- Brand: Neewer
- Model: 90091385@@##1
- Weight: 30.5 pounds
- Dimensions: 29.21 x 20.31 x 14.17 inches
Description and Performance
800W photo studio strobe flashlight features a solid build-up comprising aluminum alloy for durability in long-term use.
One can use this product as main, back, or hair light to efficiently prove amazing layout lighting. Having powerful flash energy of 400WS, the strobe delivers swift performance while shooting.
Apart from this, the recharge time is 0.3 to 1.5s along with a sync distance of 10 meters. On the other hand, the flash duration is 1/2400s for a vivid intensity of light.
There is the inclusion of two AD-R6 reflectors, Bowens mount, made using aluminum and is scratch-resistant.
For an even distribution of light, the reflector has a white-colored interior. Additionally, this kit’s octagonal softbox is a suitable medium for softening and broadening the light.
Pros
- Includes all the essential accessories
- Top-notch quality integrations
- More vigorous intensity of light
Cons
- No inclusion of a camera
- The functioning of the light mount is not satisfactory
05. XPLOR 400PRO TTL Battery-Powered Monolight by Flashpoint: Power-packed Performance
Features
- 390 power-packed shots
- 6V high capacity battery of 2600mAH
- Secondary recycle timer of 0.01 to 1s
- Auto-sensing integration
- Automated mode for switching radio slave
- Wireless system of 2.4 GHz
Specifications
- Brand: Flashpoint
- Model: XPLOR 400 Pro
- Weight: 9.4 pounds
Description and Performance
With a strong flash power of 400Ws, this strobe light has a recycle time varying from 0.01 to 1s. In addition to this, there are 12 flashes in the power output of 1/16 that work continuously.
Besides, the LED modeling lamp of 30W works with higher efficiency for unmatchable performance.
Another highlight of this product is that it delivers 390 pops of increased power, which is quite considerable in the segment.
All-in-one strobe light for outdoor flash maintains the color temperature stability within the ±75K. Also, the mode for color temperature works well during the full power range.
Furthermore, there are two methods of power supply with the professional lithium battery.
Sleek and lightweight designs of this strobe light and glossy exteriors are a treat for the eyes.
Pros
- High-speed sync of 1/8000
- Flash duration of 1/240-1/12,820s
- A compact and durable build-up
Cons
- While setting up, one might experience slippages
- The mounting area is a bit small
06. Photography 200W Photo Monolight Flash Strobe by LimoStudio: Best Quality Studio Flash
Features
- A voltage of AC 110-130V
- A switch for turning on and off the model light
- Dual LED light indicators
- Sound alerts for flash ready
- Sync cable of 11 inch
- Photo-cell mode for shooting in the dark
Specifications
- Brand: LimoStudio
- Model: AGG1756
- Weight: 2.7 pounds
- Dimensions: 10.2 x 5.7 x 7.9 inches
Description and Performance
200W photo premium-quality studio flash strobe light comes along with a supreme circular flash tube bulb. In addition to this, a reliable model light bulb is given.
It has a test button and a dial for power output that ranges from 1/16 to full. There are two indicators of LED light; the red one is for the AC power.
On the other hand, the green one is dedicated to flash ready indications.
With a recharge time of 0.2 to 1.5s, this product delivers swift and seamless performance in no time.
Likewise, it works as back, focus, and leading light, making it quite a versatile shooting accessory.
Furthermore, the shooting angle of this strobe light is easily customizable for better capturing.
Apart from this, the salve sensor turns on automatically when shooting in dark or low light conditions.
Pros
- Equipped with superior accessories
- Easily adjustable integrations
- Swift functioning
Cons
- No inclusion of a wireless trigger
- The plastic mount is prone to breakage
07. AD200 Pro Pocket Flash Light by Godox: Best-in-class Integrations
Features
- Steadfast channel triggering
- HSS and group mode selectivity
- Functional modeling light
- Primary and secondary curtain sync
- Stable stroboscopic rate is up to 90 times
- 500 high power flashes for performance boost
Specifications
- Brand: GODOX
- Model: LW-DE-AD200PRO
- Weight: 4.22 pounds
- Dimensions: 6.61 x 1.97 x 2.95 inches
Description and Performance
AD200 pro-pocket light strobe is efficient in delivering 500 power-loaded flashes alongside a recycling time of 0.01-1.8s.
Aside, there are nine stop ranges for power adjustments that function manually from full-1/256 in a stop increment of 1/10th.
In addition to this, the flash heads are easily interchangeable for a more flexible application.
Another considerable part about this product is that it has 2.4G control with a range of 330ft.
A 200 Pro Pocket strobe light is compatible with flash exposure compensation as it is an adaptable accessory in TTL support.
With high-speed sync of up to 1/8000s, it delivers a faster and reliable shooting performance. Besides, the manual outputs facilitate the user’s power requirement and preferences.
Moreover, the LCD panel shows the current remote strobes’ status to control the lighting setup better.
Pros
- Superior control over the lighting
- Fully cordless with in-built 2.4GHz wireless
- Stable color mode with ID security settings
Cons
- Lacks a round head
- Build-up is not much solid
08. eVOLV 200 TTL Modular Strobe with Silicone Skin by Flashpoint: Best Cordless Strobe
Features
- Miniature and interchangeable modular components
- Possesses a bare-bulb reflector
- TTL power of 200ws in a compact form
- Cordless radio range of 330 foot
- Five groups with 32 channels
- Optic salve mode for flexible support
Specifications
- Brand: Flashpoint
- Model: eVOLV 200
- Weight: 4.6 pounds
Description and Performance
HSS cordless strobe is backed with a 14.4V lithium battery of 2900mAh, a must for long-lasting performance. HSS cordless strobe also delivers 500 flashes of full power within a recycling time of 0.01-2.1s only.
Coming onto the power adjustability, one can easily customize 200Ws of muscle in 8 steps through 1/128-1/1.
Furthermore, the flash durations are as shorter as 1/11,300s for faster and unmatchable functioning.
HSS cordless strobe has an in-built wireless control of 2.4G. Not only these, but it also has integrations for controlling triggering of power level.
Moreover, there is a beep alert alongside an optional cordless transmitter that offers an operating range of 100m outdoors.
Also, the off-camera lighting is user-friendly as well as masterful for a great shooting experience.
Pros
- Portable design
- Easy to handle
- Highly functional modes
Cons
- The quality of the bulb is disappointing
- No option for AC adapter in the unit
09. TB-600C 600W Compact Studio Strobe Lighting Lamp by Nicefoto: Seamless Flash Triggering System
Features
- Quick recycling with premium capacitor
- Consistent shooting without interruptions
- Cooling grid with multi-rows
- Easy maintenance of light exposure
- Ideal for fashion shooting and portraits
- Aperture fine-tuning system
Specifications
- Brand: Nicefoto
- Model: TB-600C
- Weight: 7.39 pounds
- Dimensions: 19 x 11 x 9 inches
Description and Performance
TB-600C 600W Compact strobe light facilitates the quick and hassle-free installation of the light modifiers like a softbox.
TB-600C 600W Compact studio strobe has an excellent system for flash triggering as it is good at supporting wireless power control.
Modeling lamp of 150W is of excellent quality and adjustable for brightness customizations. With a recycling time of 1.2s, it offers full duration for the power flash.
On another note, one can easily adjust the power range through the six stops of 1/32 to 1/1.
Another significant part about this strobe light is the stability of color temperature while shooting. Made using ceramic, the build-up of this product is stylish and elegant.
There are touch buttons with a digital display for indicating the output power. Moreover, the heat dissipation system with an in-built cooling fan adds to the security.
Pros
- Faster callback speed
- Automatic system for flash fire
- More accurate control pressure
Cons
- Does not work well for prolonged use
- Construction is not break-resistant
10. Godox SL150 II LED Video Light: Embedded with unique effect modes
Features
- Excellent 8 FX special effects
- Fanless and noiseless
- Utmost clarity in the display of LCD
- Outstanding heat intemperance
- U-type bracket to regulate different angles with ease
Specifications
- Brand: Godox
- Model: SL150II
- Weight: 9.78 pounds
- Dimensions: 18.9 x 10.8 x 8.7 inches
Description and Performance
Godox LED Video Light is appropriate for video applications, online streaming, broadcasting, cinematography, etc.
You can adjust its settings by its wireless remote from 0% to full strength, i.e., 150W. Moreover, this is embedded with 32 channels of wireless control 16 groups.
Godox is noiseless, along with a clear display of LCD. Besides, you can adjust different angles easily with a U-type bracket.
This LED video light SL150II can significantly accomplish the shooting effectively without any hindrance with eight unique effect modes, robust power, soft lighting, and plentiful roles.
Pros
- Brilliant performance
- Countless color quality
- Extremely clean
- Noiseless fan
- Quality of the build is durable
- Great power output
Cons
- Bit heavy
Buying Facts: Best Strobe Lights
Purchasing the best strobe lights for photography is challenging for those who are very new to this field. There are various manufactures and brands which offer great deals and products.
But, one should do complete research about every aspect of buying the strobe lights.
Therefore, go through this buying guide to discuss all those aspects that you must consider before purchasing strobe lights for photography.
Quality
When we talk about buying any product, the first factor that we must consider is the product’s quality. Godox product’s quality determines its lifespan, service, and performance.
If the quality is superior, then the product’s performance will be more efficient and effective.
On the other hand, if the product’s quality is cheaper, it will sustain itself for a short period and offer unreliable service. So, go for the strobe lights that have superior quality.
Power
Strobe lights hold a power capacity from 100 to 1,000 watts. If you plan to buy strobe light, then go for the one whose intensity suits the studio.
Additionally, the strobe lights are adjustable according to the power of the clicks also. So always go for the strobe lights that work great according to your surroundings and requirement.
Type
When we talk about the type, the strobe lights come in different styles like LED, halogen, and xenon are common types of strobe lights.
All of these types have other sources of lights and are used for other purposes. Apart from these, a different kind of strobe light is the portable one. T
hese portable strobe lights are easy to carry from one place to another. So it is always suggested to go for the one that ideally suits your photography style.
Choose the lights that can ease your work and offers a great photography experience.
Flash Duration
Flash duration is the distance between the two flashlights. If you photograph a fast-moving object, then using the correct flash duration is the best way to get the perfect shots.
Always use the strobe light with a distance of t0.5 value of 1/2,000th second and more. Make sure that you are very much précised about the dynamic shots you are clicking.
Sometimes the right length and the timing play a vital role in getting you the perfect desired shots.
Color Temperature
The color temperature is a significant factor to consider, which should not be neglected at any cost. Likewise, the ideal color temperature, commonly used in a strobe light, varies from 4800k to 5200k.
Furthermore, this is said to be the most accurate and perfect frequency to get the best shots. If you are shooting from a DSLR, then it has the feature of automatic adjustment.
Also, it has a part of automatic adjustment, which makes it very easy to use. Get the perfect pictures by setting the right color temperature.
Affordability
Affordability is the less considered factor but considering it could be one of the smartest moves. Generally, what stops us from buying the best lights available in the market is the budget.
And if we spend too much on buying the best lights, it could also disturb our budget. To avoid such a situation, you can again go for some quality lights within reach of your budget.
Following such a strategy will not only save your money, but also you can easily buy the right products without investing more.
Durability
The durability is the last but one of the most critical aspects that must be considered before buying the strobe lights.
As a smart buyer, we always wish to get the most out of our product. And this can only happen if the product is long-lasting and durable.
Also, if the product is stable, it can be used frequently without worrying about its performance. Moreover, if the strobe lights are durable, they are used continuously for a more extended period.
Related FAQs
What is the strobe light?
A strobe is a glowing light known as the latest technique of clicking the perfect shots. In this technique, shimmer shades of the highlighters are used to get the ideal features.
Besides, it is the glowing or artificial flash to fulfill the need for brightness and cover the shots.
In addition to this, the strobe has the feature of clicking movable images and making them look like they are not moving or keeping ideal.
You need to set the frequency of the flashlight to get the perfect and accurate picture.
What is the use of strobe lights in photography?
Strobe lights are powerful and intensive flashlights used to capture the running shots and make them look motionless.
Besides this, it plays a vital role in motion photography and gives the best light outputs. And it can overpower the sunlight if you are click in an open area.
In addition to this, the strobe lights have the power to create the most impactful and dynamic pictures.
Strobe lights work amazingly if perfect flash durations are kept into consideration.
Furthermore, it has excellent results in high-speed photography and captures the steadiest shots.
What are the qualities of the best strobe lights?
There are many qualities that the best strobe lights for photography should have, but some of the most important ones are discussed below.
Along with this, the strobe lights you are purchasing should be German engineered with premium material used.
They should be compatible with a different range of cameras to make them dynamic and easy to use.
The battery operation should have excellent performance, so ensure that you are getting a strobe light with a higher battery backup.
Recycling time should be fast enough to improve its performance, and it should be energy efficient.
How can we sync strobe lights with the camera?
Syncing the strobe lights with a camera can be done in the following ways. One of the best ways to sync the strobe lights with a camera is via cable.
Another way of syncing the strobe lights with the camera is by using the built-in electronic slave. And the final form of syncing both is by using the triggers or the radio slaves.
These ways mentioned above are reliable ways that will give a reliable connection between both of these two.
How many strobe lights are required for photography?
The requirement of the strobe lights generally depends upon the needs of the individual. But in general, four strobes are sufficient to get a high-quality photo.
In addition to this, these four lights are the key light, fill, hair light, and the background light.
All these lights are enough to get a perfect photograph without any shadow and dull light. And if you want more précised and high-quality pictures, then you can go for more lights.
Where should be the strobe lights placed?
For getting a magnificent shot, the lights should be placed at both sides of the camera. They should be set 45-degrees pointing towards the subject.
Moreover, this is the ideal way to set the lights for getting the perfect photograph.
And the reason for this is because this placement offers a soft shadow and depth while leaving out the dark shadows.
Is continuous lighting better than strobe lighting?
Comparing these two lights can be difficult, but the strobes give more power than the continuous lights. On the other hand, the strobes are very easy to modify and offer a tremendous cinematic look.
Besides this, the strobes always have the upper hand over the continuous lights and produce more power and clarity. So the exact answer to the question is: No, the constant lights are not better than the strobes.
What are the best lights for photography?
Strobe lights are considered to be the best lights for taking the perfect shots. These lights have great results in clicking motion images and taking the ideal pictures.
Moreover, the strobe light gives a glowy flash, which fulfills the need for a flashlight.
Also, it has excellent results in small places and is known for its dynamic nature. Moreover, it is highly compatible with various cameras, which makes it very flexible to use.
Conclusion
So by now, you must have become familiar with the strobe lights and their functioning. Also, you have got a fair idea about the best strobe lights for photography.
Strobe lights have been used mainly to give special effects in theatre lighting. These are used to create a stop-motion effect.
Strobes are not only used in still and portrait photography but also during action shots as well.
When a strobe is used, the camera can capture the fast-moving objects with the utmost ease, clarity, and crispness.
All you need to do is find the perfect one that suits well within your requirements.