The monolight is designed to provide a constant, even light source. It is used primarily by professional photographers and videographers. Monolights are generally more powerful than other types of photographic lighting and offer more control over the lighting. They are also more expensive than other types of photographic lighting. Some of the renowned brands are ADB Acute, Elinca, & Yongnuo.
Choosing the right photographic lighting monolight is difficult as there are many factors to consider such as power, features, price, and brand. To make it easier to find the exact photographic lighting monolight you’re looking for, we rounded up the best photographic lighting monolights on Amazon, according to thousands of customer reviews.
Check out our favorite photographic lighting monolights in the list below, and keep reading for our buying guide.
Our Editor’s Best Photographic Lighting Monolights Reviews
- The andoer snoot bowen snoot interfit snoot optical snoot bowens mount is designed to help you focus the light and pinpoint the product details.
- The conical optical snoot for portrait flash snoot light snoot comes with honeycomb, more convenient and accurate.
- The photography snoot speedlight snoot photographic lighting truncated cone spot diffuser bowens compatible for Bowens mount studio photography light.
- photo light snoot kit conico bowens cone photography has five color filters(Transparent, red, green, blue and yellow) create effects at different color temperatures.
- cone for spot flash snoot for bowens mount made of high quality aluminum alloy, more durable.bowers mount snoot metal conical snoot with honeycomb grid is perfect as a hair light or dramatic accent light, creates a unique portrait for you.
- Powerful Flash with Fast Recycling: The Godox SK400IIV utilizes high-quality large capacitors to store electricity, enabling fast recycling times of 0.1-1.5s and continuous shooting without waiting.
- Adjustable Eco-friendly LED Modeling Lamp: With a 10W LED modeling lamp that adjusts in 5% to 100% power levels, the SK400IIV provides precise lighting control for your photography needs.
- Bowens Mount for Versatile Accessory Compatibility: The upgraded version of the SK400II features a Bowens mount, allowing you to install lighter and more portable accessories for your shoots.
- Wireless X Control System: The built-in Godox 2.4G Wireless X system enables you to use optional X1, XT16 or FT16 triggers (sold separately) to control the flash power ratio, modeling lamp, buzzer, and flash triggering.
- LCD Display with Auto Memory Function: The precise output of the SK400IIV is displayed on an LCD panel, with 40 steps from 1/16-1/1. The auto memory and recovery function preserves your adjusted panel settings, while the anti-preflash function enables synchronization with cameras that have a one-preflash firing system.
- 【Powerful Studio Monolight Kit】 This studio speedlight kit includes two S101-400W monolight flashes, two 6.6ft light stands, two softboxes, an RT-16 transmitter, two receivers, a 5 in 1 reflector, and a big carry bag that stores the whole kit. Each monolight features 400Ws maximum power and 5600K color temperature, ideal for product, portrait, still life, food, commercial, and wedding photography
- 【Excellent 150W Modeling Lamp】 Compact yet capable, the 150W modeling lamp has 9 brightness levels (L1–L9) and 7.0–10 (1/8–1/1) flash power adjustment to match ambient light conditions. 1/2000–1/800s flash duration and 0.4-2.8s recycling time help you capture every precious moment. The flash tube with a stable power output resists high heat, high voltage, deformation, and breakage. Memory function saves settings for the next time
- 【S1/S2 Optical Slave & Remote Sync】 S101-400W can work as a slave unit for diverse light effects, triggered by a manual master unit in S1 mode and a TTL master unit in S2 mode. The RT-16 trigger features 16 channels and supports quick sync up to 1/200s within 99ft/30m (outdoor) or 66ft/20m (indoor) when set in the same channel as the receivers. Its single contact hot shoe is compatible with Canon Sony Nikon Fujifilm Olympus Lumix Pentax cameras
- 【Efficient Heat Dissipation System】 The flash adopts optimized cooling fans and an enlarged air inlet for efficient heat dissipation. No overheating will occur even after 260 consecutive full power flashes for safe use and an extended lifespan
- 【Universal Accessory Bowens Mount】 The Bowens mount and umbrella socket can work with softboxes (included), photography umbrellas, beauty dishes, snoots, and other light shapers. The light stand mount adapter supports 180° tilt for free angle adjustment. The 5 in 1 reflector with gold, silver, white, black, and translucent diffuser bounces lighting with different color tones
- 【2x 180W Studio Flash Kit】 Godox K180A 2-light studio flash kit for Photography: features 75W 3200K yellow color continous lamp and 180W 5600K white blance strobe light, built in energy save sensor and cooling fan. Flash output is adjustable from 1/8 to full stepless, flash duration: 1/2000-1/800s, GN 45. Satisfys the light requirements in different environment.
- 【Equipped Wireless Flash Trigger】Build-in light sensor allows 2 lights strobe synchronously, please set flash transmitter and receiver at the same channel and make sure master light is able to reach another lamp to realize synchronization. wireless control working distances is up to 30 meters. Godox RT-16 strobe trigger is compatible with Nikon /Canon /Fujifilm /Olympus /Pentax hot shoe.
- 【20"X28"/50x70cm Softbox】 The soft box can diffuse light and provide a soft beam to eliminate shadows and take perfect pictures. No flash, protect our eyes and create the perfect lighting for indoors shooting. Height adjustable tripod stand and angle adjusting screw gives diffrent shoot experience according to your needs.
- 【Easy to install and use】 The softbox photography strobe Kit is setting-easy with a few minute. works with various light accessories: softboxes, reflectors, umbrella, snoots, etc. It is ideal for using in studios, portrait shooting, fashion photo shoots, product photography, children's photo shoots, still life shots. Great choice for studio photography beginner, small business starter, photography beginer.
- 【Strobe photography lighting kit】 includes 2x 180W Monolights, 2x Softbox, 2x Light Stands, 2x Power cable, 1x RT-16 Trigger set. 【Product support】 we provide one year customer support, any issue please contact us via amazon message.
- Godox SK400II Speedlite Monolight has a Large LED Display, Precise Output Displayed on LCD Panel, 40 Steps from 1/16-1/1. Auto Memory and Recovery of Adjusted Panel Settings
- 150W Modeling Lamp Adjusts in 5% to 100% Power Level, Outstanding output stability,no more than 2% shifts when under the same ouput ,Auto memory and recovery of adjusted panel settings.
- Anti-preflash function enables synchronization with cameras that have a one- preflash firing system , Built-in heat elimination fan machine, overheat protection, effectively protect flash safety and extend flash life.The Voltage: 110V
- Built-in Godox 2.4G wireless X system , Godox SK400II Flash Monolight is A Cost-Effective Compact Flash Strobe .With Godox 2.4G X system wireless transmission,Godox SK400II Flash Monolight is compatible with flash Transmitter Godox Xpro, X1,X2, XT32 or FT-16 flash trigger. 2.4G: 16 group, 32 channel
- Using high-quality large capacitors to store electricity, 0.1-1.0s Fast Recycling ,continuous shooting does not wait, providing shooting efficiency. Godox SK400II Studio Strobe Monolight for E-Commerce Product Shooting, Portrait and Lifestyle Photography. In Small and Medium Studio Shooting, It Can Work as High Light, Background Light or Hair Light
- 【Heavy Duty Light Stand 】10ft/300cm heavy duty light stand adopts Metal structure, it's very durable and stable three-legged stage design makes it strong enough to support most equipment. Equipped with simple but solid locking system.It will not shake during use, keeping all your stuff in safe without worrying any poor structure ruins your shooting schedule. Good used for mounting strobe lights, monolight, reflectors, umbrellas, softboxes and other photographic equipment.
- 【ADJUSTABLE】Feel free to adjust the height of the light stand from 43inch/108cm to 118 inch/300cm; The arm can be extended to 62 inch/158cm length that It can also be rotated to 180 degree which allows you to capture the image under different angle.
- 【Air-Cushioned Heavy Duty Light Stand】With the air-cushioned shock feature you will be able to protect your equipment or ''fingers'' from any harm in case you forget to tighten any of the sections of your light stand due that the light slowly descends due to the air cushioned feature.
- 【Wide Compatibility】With the 1/4-inch screw on the light stand is applicable to most photographic equipment, such as studio strobe lights, softbox, umbrellas, flash light and reflector. And the 1/4" to 3/8" Screw on the boom arm for a variety of product needs. Perfect to use outdoor and indoor, giving you a great support to meet various photo or video shooting situations.
- 【Come with a Sandbag】The sandbag attached allows you to easily control the counterweight and better stabilize your lighting setup.The balance of the weight is up to you,because you can change the weight of the sandbag to create angles of your photography.
- 【Less Impact & Dual Springs】The heavy duty light stand comes with two spring buffers built in the pole, effectively minimizing the friction and impact when failling down, and ensuring the utmost protection for your valuable photography gears.
- 【Superior 9.2FT Height Range】Elevate your photography game with the telescopic light stand, supporting an ultra-high height range to meet diverse shooting requirements, from 3.5ft to 9.2ft(1.1m-2.8m). Whether indoors or outdoors, tackle any photography height challenge at ease.
- 【Robust Metal Locking Mechanism】The photography light stand features a high-quality steel body with an anti-rusty coating for a better performance on heavy load(Max load up to 22LB). The solid metal locking promises strong, firm joints, providing steadfast support for your devices.
- 【Triple Reinforced Base, Maximum Stability】Except for a twist lock over its base, the steel tripod stand especially designs three individual block strips between the center stud and legs, adding more assurance against tipping or wobbling. Besides, three anti-slip rubber feet firmly grip the ground, further enhancing stability.
- 【Versatile Screw & Two-Way Options】Equipped with a 1/4" and 3/8" adapter, this studio lighting stand is well-suited to strobe lights, reflectors, umbrellas, softboxes, speedlights, flashlights, spotlights and DSLR cameras. Moreover, choose between top-mounted or side-mounted installation for flexible lighting direction, catering to your unique shooting needs.
- High temperature resistance: Made of high-quality aluminum alloy body, built-in brightening glass lens with high-temperature resistance, more strong and durable for long time use. It can be used with flashes up to 2400W and LED constant lights up to 600W, without risk of the snoot overheating or damage, even during continuous use with modeling bulb of flash lights.
- EF-mount: Wellmaking optical snoot is designed with EF-mount. Different lens used on will have different projection effects. You can choose Wellmaking customized Lens L-60 (to be purchased separately) to add on this snoot, you can also choose your own EF-mount lens to use.
- Extra Convenient：Magnetic designed Gobo clip makes you easy to place it in or remove it, multiple graphics effects. The updated circular Gobo clip is for 360° rotation, extra convenient to flexibly change the Gobo direction.
- WIDELY USED: Bowens Mount design. Suitable for studio strobe flash lights and LED light with Bowens mount. Widely used in photography and video shooting, helps you to produce a unique and creative effect.
- KIT INCLUDE:1*Optical snoot with Bowens speedring,1*Gobo holder, 6*Stainless Steel Gobos, 4*color gel(red/yellow/green/blue).Attention!! Light and lens need to be purchased separately.
- The Godox Advantage: Godox, since 1993, is a high-tech manufacturer specializing in lighting and audio equipment. Godox has been committed to providing consumers with professional and high-quality: Camera Flash; Continuous Light; Audio; Monitor; Light Shaper, and Photography Accessories. etc. It enables more people to enjoy the fun of light shaping. Godox All-in-One Outdoor Flash Make every whim and desire there is a direct button ready for action
- Technical Support: Compatible with Canon E-TTL II, Nikon i-TTL Autoflash, Sony, FUJIFILM, Olympus and Panasonic TTL Autoflash System. 0.01-1.5s recycle time, more 320 pops at full power, stable color temperature, 9 stop range of power adjusts from full to 1/256 in 1/10th stop increments, really make AD300Pro stands out from the crowd. Built-in receiver for triggering and power control with 2.4G wireless system.
- Why choose it: 12W Bi-Color Dimmable Modeling Led; The color temperature can be adjusted from 3000K to 6000K;weights 2.75lb with the small size of 7.5×3.9×3.5in. Easy to use buttons command a full range of functions like reliable Channel triggering, Group mode selectivity, HSS. The LCD panel clearly displays the status of all remote Strobes, so you always have control of group lighting setup.
- Wide Compatibility: 300Ws powerful performance to meet diverse shooting requirements, widely used travel, wedding, portrait, event and outdoor photography, such as art photo, creative shooting, commercial advertising, studio photography etc.It matches all the camera systems.
- Made of pure metal,giving it a longer service time and exceptional strength for heavy duty. Note: When you adjust the angle under the conditions that the weight on both sides of the joint head is not balanced, it will damage the screw that connects the two halfs of the joint. SO PLEASE hold the rear part of the arm to keep the arm balanced firstly before adjusting the angle.
- Its height is adjustable,satisfying your various shooting needs.
- Easily attach to other equipment with its knob and spiral screw.
- Rubber padded,giving you a comfortable feeling and preventing it from sliding when you move.
- Its sturdy 3 legs structure at the bottom ensures your equipments stable. Note:Stand only!the monolight is NOT included!
Best Photographic Lighting Monolights Buying Guide
Before choosing the best photographic lighting monolights you should consider following options:
1. Power Source: Photographic lighting systems can be powered by three different kinds of sources: AC, DC and battery.
AC-powered units are the most common and can be plugged into a wall outlet. AC units are generally more expensive than DC models, but they’re also more versatile and safer to use.
DC units can be powered by either batteries or a power cord, and they’re generally more affordable than AC units, but they’re less versatile.
Battery-powered units are the most portable option, but they require regular battery changes and can be expensive to operate.
2. Battery Life: Battery life is determined by two main factors: the number of batteries and the power draw of the lighting system.
The number of batteries affects the runtime in two ways: First, it determines the number of flashes you can get from a fully charged set of batteries. Second, it determines the length of time it takes for the batteries to discharge, known as the duty cycle.
The power draw of the lighting system determines the number of flashes you can get from a fully charged set of batteries.
The higher the power draw, the shorter the runtime. For example, a lighting system that draws 6 amps will only get about 20 flashes from a fully charged set of batteries compared to a lighting system that draws 1.5 amps, which will get more than 100 flashes from a fully charged set of batteries.
3. Power Draw: The amount of power that a lighting system draws determines the number of flashes you can get from a fully charged set of batteries.
For example, a lighting system that draws 6 amps will only get about 20 flashes from a fully charged set of batteries compared to a lighting system that draws 1.5 amps, which will get more than 100 flashes from a fully charged set of batteries.
4. Wattage: Wattage is the unit of measure used to rate the brightness of a lighting system. It’s calculated by multiplying the volts of the power supply by the amps of the lighting system by the number of flashes you can get from a fully charged set of batteries.
For example, a lighting system that draws 6 amps from a 12-volt power supply will have a wattage rating of 72 watts.
5. Modelling Lights: Modelling lights are used to help photographers visualize the lighting setup before taking the photo.
Modelling lights can be either incandescent or LED, and they’re generally brighter than the main light source. However, they can also be expensive and consume more power than the main light source.
6. Cost: Photographic lighting systems can be expensive, depending on the features and power draw of the lighting system.
As a general guideline, expect to pay $100 to $300 for a lighting system that draws 1.5 amps from a 12-volt power supply.
What else you should know about photographic lighting monolights
1. What are the best photographic lighting monolights for professional photographers?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on the specific needs of the photographer. Some of the more popular brands of monolights among professional photographers include Profoto, Elinchrom, and Broncolor.
2. What are the best photographic lighting monolights for amateur photographers?
There are many different types of photographic lighting monolights available on the market, so it really depends on the specific needs of the amateur photographer. Some of the more popular brands include Nikon, Canon, and Sony.
3. What are the best photographic lighting monolights for low-light photography?
Some of the best photographic lighting monolights for low-light photography include the Profoto B1X, the Broncolor Siros L, and the Godox Witstro AD600B.
4. What are the best photographic lighting monolights for high-speed photography?
Some of the best photographic lighting monolights for high-speed photography are the Profoto B1X, the Broncolor Siros L, and the Elinchrom ELC Pro HD.
5. What are the best photographic lighting monolights for special effects photography?
There is no definitive answer to this question as there are a variety of monolights that can be used for special effects photography, depending on the desired effect. Some popular choices for special effects photography monolights include those with built-in color gels, diffusers, or flash heads that can be angled to create different lighting effects.
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best photographic lighting monolights. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best photographic lighting monolights will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.