Every photographer, whether beginner or professional, knows that lighting is the pivotal factor that can make or break a photoshoot. But with myriad lighting options out in the market, how do you decide where to invest? Today, we focus our lens on one of the most sought-after lights by photographers around the globe – LED light panels. They are versatile, energy-efficient, and offers a range of colour temperatures and brightness levels. Let’s illuminate your path by reviewing the top 5 LED light panels in the market today.

1. Aputure AL-M9

No bigger than a credit card, the Aputure AL-M9 is a portable wonder. Despite its compact size, it offers a powerful output with nine SMD bulbs that provide a max brightness of 900lux/0.3m and a colour temperature range of 5500±200K. What truly sets this panel apart is its USB port for continuous power, allowing you to shoot without worrying about battery life. However, the small size limits its usage to fill light rather than the main source.

2. Neewer 660 LED Video Light

Known for its formidable brightness and price-to-quality ratio, the Neewer 660 LED Video Light is an excellent choice for both photography and videography. With 660 White and Yellow LED long lasting bulbs, this light illuminates a variable color temperature from 3200 to 5600K. Add in its U-mount bracket for adjusting lighting angle and wireless remote control for ease of operation, and you have a lighting tool ideal for various shooting environments.

3. Godox LEDP260C

The Godox LEDP260C is characterized by its exceptional quality of light output. Sporting 256 LED bulbs with adjustable colour temperature (3300K-5600K) and brightness level (10%-100%), it provides continuous and stable illumination. Furthermore, with an impressive CRI of 95+, it ensures natural and lifelike colours, vital for professional shoots.

4. GVM 560AS

The GVM 560AS goes a step beyond with its two-color adjustment feature, allowing you to fine-tune the lighting to your subject. Combining 560 LED Bulbs – 280 White and 280 Yellow, it offers a colour temperature range of 2300K to 6800K. Its digital LCD screen enables precise control over brightness levels, and the panel can be powered either by an AC adapter or Sony batteries. The addition of an app control to adjust the light from your smartphone is a cherry on top for the tech-savvy set.

5. FalconEyes SO-48TD

If budget is not a constraint, then the FalconEyes SO-48TD LED light panel could be your best bet. Offering a soft and uniform lighting effect with its 48W power and 120 LEDs, it boasts a color temperature range of 3000-5600K. What sets this panel apart from most others in the market is the touch screen control panel to adjust brightness and color temperature swiftly. Made from lightweight and durable materials, this LED panel is easily portable with superior heat dissipation.

Wrap up

LED light panels are a significant player in the world of photography, giving you control over the light intensity and mood of your shots. Whether you are looking to upgrade your kit or arm yourself with new camera accessories, good quality light panels like these five top-rated picks can change your photography game substantially.

Remember, investing in good lighting equipment like LED panels helps you create a flexible, efficient, cool and long lasting lighting setup, something that is crucial for both photography and videography. Happy shooting!

Now that we have shed light on the top 5 LED panels, what’s your lighting tool of choice? Share your experiences and opinions in the comment section below!