Best Lighting Gear for Filming Videos
Getting quality lights is expensive, but like audio, these are investments that last and won't be replaced by new versions every couple years like cameras.
Start with a set of lights with consistent white balance, then invest in ways to modify it.
Neewer 2 Pack LED Lighting Kit
I don’t own these, but if I was just starting out and needed to save money on lights, this is what I’d get. Are they going to give you the best light possible? No. Are they the most sturdy light stands? No. Are they good enough to get started? Yes.
Throw in front of this light a bed sheet or a 5-in-1 reflector (which I list below on this page) to soften the light coming out of them a bit and you’ll have a good starting place.
Aputure 120d Mark II
This is my favorite light. I own two of them and use them for EVERYTHING I film. Whether setup in the studio or traveling around the world for client projects, these lights have done everything for me when I combo them with the additional accessory attachments below.
Aputure Light Dome
If you have an Aputure 120D light, this light dome is an absolute must buy. It gives you the ability to have a 35” soft box of light. I’m linking here to version 1 of the dome since it is cheaper, but if you can afford to spend a little more, version 2 is much easier to collapse and build.
Aputure Light Dome Mini
If you’re in a smaller room and don’t have enough space for the larger light dome I mentioned above, this smaller version is still great to use for attaching to a 120D or 300D to use as a soft box. This is another must buy for me.
Aputure Tri-8C Bi-Color LED
I use this smaller, bi-color light as an accent or hair light when I’m filming. What’s nice about it is that you can use 2 Sony NPF batteries to power it without an AC power cable, which makes it easier to position in places without a stand. It comes with a small soft box you can attach as well.
Light Stands
Impact LS-RL7 7.2 Light Stand
A lightweight stand that we like to use for hair/background lights as well as for holding reflectors. They pack small and won't take up much room on set.
Impact Air-Cushioned Heavy Duty
These are the biggest stands that we use on a regular basis. Capable of holding our heaviest gear, you can throw a sand bag on the legs and rest easy knowing your equipment is safe in the arms of the "Heavy Duty".
Light Modifiers
5-in-1 Collapsible Reflector Disc
Bounce it, reflect it, shape it, block it, turn it gold. The 5 in 1 disc is versatile and cheap. We use it all the time in many different ways. Mainly for diffusing or eliminating light.
Impact Telescopic Collapsible Reflector Holder
We are fans of big, soft light; shooting through a reflector accomplishes the effect for super cheap. A reflector holder helps you to shape your light, especially when you are shooting outside or somewhere with a lot of window light.
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Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you. I will earn a commission % if you decide to buy through these links. I either own or have used every piece of equipment I recommend on my site. Also, know that no company is paying me to promote their products either. - Caleb Wojcik