Continuous Lights Versus Flash for Portrait Photography

It used to be that continuous lighting was either way too hot or simply not powerful enough for lighting portraits, but LEDs have come quite a long way in recent years, and they are now a viable alternative to strobes in certain situations. This great video examines the two options while showing off a unique light that can do both. 

Coming to you from Miguel Quiles, this neat video examines shooting portraits with both flash and constant light while working with the Rotolight Aeos 2, a unique hybrid light. LEDs have advanced quite a bit recently, and while they will still not offer the same power as a studio strobe, they can work for certain needs and situations. For example, I was a big fan of the Broncolor F160 in my review. In particular, with a mirrorless camera, the ability to see your exact rendering and exposure at all times is pretty awesome, though you need to consider the downsides as well. Hopefully, the technology will continue to advance and bring it even closer to dedicated strobes in the years to come. 

If you would like to continue learning about how to light a portrait, be sure to check out "Illuminating The Face: Lighting for Headshots and Portraits With Peter Hurley!"

Alex Cooke's picture

Alex Cooke is a Cleveland-based portrait, events, and landscape photographer. He holds an M.S. in Applied Mathematics and a doctorate in Music Composition. He is also an avid equestrian.

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3 Comments

I've been using continuous lighting for years. It's just what I always preferred and fit my style best. LED technology has advanced so much in the last 10 years that I never feel I have to sacrifice anything when I don't use flash. The AEOS 2 looks like a great light for me since I want RGB and the option of using flash when I absolutely need it.

Buying a light modifier that only works on one version of one light is a red flag for me. I get that it's innovative but having Bowens speed rings means not having to re-buy everything each time I want to try a bigger or different light. It's gonna be a no for me dog.

no result photos, only marketing stuff