Rating permanent light for photography studio, the best in 2022

In the work of any photographer, two types of light are always involved: natural and artificial. It is clear that the first is sunlight, which depends on unpredictable natural factors. The second type of lighting involves the use of a whole range of manipulations with the obligatory use of special equipment. These devices include pulsed and constant light sources. This article will consider photographic equipment that provides constant coverage of the process of photo and video shooting, the criteria for its selection and an overview of popular models in 2022.

How to choose the right equipment

There are four types of constant light sources on the modern market for photo studio equipment, which differ in the type of lamps used in them. According to this characteristic, the illuminator can be:

• fluorescent;
• halogen;
• LED;
• luminescent.

In addition, light sources are usually divided into products with warm and cold light. Fluorescent or luminescent models are designed to create cold lighting and backgrounds. In turn, luminescent sources cannot be focused.

Halogen models are more used for video shooting due to the warm temperature. Many photographers use them as softbox diffusers as well.

The most common among modern photographers is LED lighting. Due to its cost-effectiveness and ease of use, as well as a significant service life, such equipment is actively used to create both video and film projects.

In addition to the type of light source, when buying permanent lighting for photo studios, you should also pay attention to the following selection criteria:

1. Lighting power. It should be at least 250-500 W, which is a sufficient indicator for a home photo studio.
2. Price and quality. In other words, an expensive product does not mean the best, the main thing is its functionality.For example, it is very important to have a power adjustment and a change in its depth, and the latter must be at least 1/128 (lighting control within eight apertures).
3. The number of illuminators. Usually, for a small photo studio, two or three sources are enough, which, as a rule, are incandescent lamps or LED lamps. The latter, most often, are equipped with remote control panels and brightness adjustment.
   
4. Device type. The equipment can be intended for subject shooting, for a home (portable) or professional (stationary) studio.
5. Purchase of the complete set or all components separately. First of all, it should be distinguished that for a novice amateur, buying a ready-made kit is suitable, because he does not have experience in correctly selecting devices that are suitable for compatibility, and besides, their cost is lower than when buying lighting in individual parts. For professionals, you can consider purchasing a kit at retail, which allows you to get acquainted with the full range, try out new products and use a more complex lighting scheme.
6. Equipment. A standard set of studio lighting includes two or three illuminators, mounting their tripods, a diffuser (softbox) and auxiliary devices in the form of a reflector, backgrounds, color filters and a bag.

As a result, it turns out that in order to provide high-quality constant lighting for photo studios, it is important that its sources have sufficient power and are universal. There is no need for them to have an exorbitant price.

The best manufacturers of permanent studio lighting

In the modern Russian market of equipment for photo studios, the models of constant studio light of the following brands are in the greatest demand:

• FST (FotoStudio Technology). One of the most popular manufacturers of permanent lighting equipment for photography and video filming. Most of the company's products are low-cost models of high-quality ready-made kits designed for small and traveling photo studios.
• Falcon Eyes. Represents one of the widest product lines among studio products. Due to the optimal pricing policy and the ratio of price and quality, the company's products are popular all over the world.
• Fotokvant. Represents a brand that has recently entered the market, consisting of a whole group of Russian companies that produce a wide range of photographic products, from clothespins to studio backgrounds. Since 2016, the association has been replenished with Chinese manufacturers.
• LUMIFOR. A growing Russian brand of studio equipment. Offers budget products for beginner photographers who cannot afford to purchase world brand equipment.
• fancier. It is a private brand of Ningbo Weifeng Image Equipment Group Co., Ltd., under which the company produces a full range of high-quality equipment for photographers and videographers: lighting equipment, tripods, bags and other products.
• Raylab. A major Russian manufacturer that has been developing and creating technological equipment for photo and video shooting for more than 15 years.

There are other equally well-known, but producing more expensive products, manufacturers of photographic equipment. So in the ranking of high-quality permanent studio lighting devices are models from GRIFON, Rekam, Aputure, Bowens, FUJIMI and GreeBean.

Rating of constant light kits for photo studios in 2022

Sets worth up to 20,000 rubles.

Raylab RL-LED 176 Continuous Light Kit

This set of constant light from a Russian brand is a great option for small photo and video studios. Suitable for bloggers to write reviews, for subject and portrait photography.

The set includes two illuminators, each for 4 lamps. The light source is LED lamps with a total power of 176 watts. This configuration of the illuminator, coupled with two power switches, each of which has two lamps, allows you to create 4 lighting options:

• 100% - when all 8 lamps are on;
• 75% - 4 lamps are turned on on one illuminator and 2 lamps - on the second;
• 50% - 2 lamps on each illuminator or 4 lamps, but only on 1 illuminator;
• 25% - of all llamas, only two are turned on on a certain light.

The kit, which includes 2 softboxes and 2 stands in addition to illuminators with lamps, can be conveniently placed in the included bag, making the Raylab RL-LED 176 mobile, convenient for on-site work. More photos and characteristics of Raylab RL-LED 176 can be found on the official website of the manufacturer.

• A turnkey solution for bloggers, portrait and product photography;
• LED lamps with high color rendering CRI≥ 96;
• Constant color temperature of lamps 5500 K;
• Lamp life - up to 50 hours;
• 4 lighting options (100, 75, 50 and 25 percent);
• Lamps with a universal base E27 are used;
• Extended cord length - 4 meters;
• Bowens mount that allows you to replace softboxes with other light modifications.

• There are no significant shortcomings in the equipment, if only the absence of remote control devices in the kit.

General characteristics of Raylab RL-LED 176:

Options	Characteristics
Softbox size	60x80 cm
Plinth type	E27
Stand material	aluminum
Maximum rack height	200 cm
Type, lamp power	LED, 22 W. each
Colorful temperature	5500 K
Brand Country	Russia
Equipment	2 illuminators, 8 lamps, 2 softboxes, 2 racks bag

The cost of Raylab RL-LED 176: 12600 rubles.

FST-006 KIT

FST-006 Kit promotes professional studio lighting with four 120W fluorescent tubes and softboxes. The color temperature is 5500 K. The kit includes four softboxes equipped with E27 cartridges and a crane crossbar with a counterweight bag that allows you to adjust the light, correct its direction, and also fix other photographic equipment. Also in the set are three aluminum stands designed for softboxes and a crane, and a convenient photo table with a tabletop. The table can be easily disassembled. Racks allow you to install a constant studio light on either side of the subject. The kit is a mobile photo and video studio that allows you to create the right lighting in any conditions.

• thanks to the optimal color temperature of 5500K, a feeling of daylight is created, which subsequently facilitates photo processing;
• strong, non-flickering and non-flickering lamps, providing high quality not only for shooting photos, but also for video;
• versatility of illuminators due to the presence of the E27 base;
• the presence of an easily disassembled photo table with a comfortable tabletop, which distinguishes this kit from most similar equipment from other brands.

For such multifunctional equipment at an affordable price, it is difficult to name significant disadvantages. Minor shortcomings of the kit include the lack of remote control devices and the use of fluorescent lamps, not LEDs.But in this case, the cost of the kit would have increased by at least three times.

General Features of FST-006 Kit:

Options	Characteristics
Power consumption	620 W
Softbox size	50 x 70 cm
Plinth type	E27
Stand material	aluminum
Maximum rack height	200 cm
Type, lamp power	fluorescent 155 W
Colorful temperature	5500 K
Country of Origin	China
Equipment	Photo table 100x60x55 cm - 1 pc. Softbox 50x70 cm - 4 pcs. Lamp 155 W 5500 K - 4 pcs. Rack 2.1 m - 3 pcs. Crossbar-crane - 1 pc.

The cost of FST-006 Kit is 18050 rubles.

Fancier PS02 fluorescent kit with two fluorescent lamps

Fancier PS02 is a set of professional lighting equipment for studio and street photography. The set is equipped with fluorescent lamps and can be used for reportage shooting or for shooting for documents. The maximum lamp power is 56 W, in addition to them, this model comes with two illuminators and two racks.

• budget cost with optimal functionality and color temperature;
• strong and resistant fluorescent lamps with universal socket E27;
• convenient length of the power cord and the presence of a high-quality mount for an umbrella;
• equipment mobility, quick and easy assembly and disassembly and convenient transportation;
• the ability to change lamps with different color temperatures;
• the presence of durable metal racks, as well as switches on reflectors, which greatly facilitates the shooting process.

It is very difficult to determine any significant shortcomings in this model. You can pay attention to the limited set of equipment, but if you take into account its cost, then in the case when you need more advanced functionality, you should resort to purchasing more expensive sets of permanent studio lighting.

General characteristics of Fancier PS02 fluorescent kit:

Options	Characteristics
Power consumption	56 W
Softbox size	No
Plinth type	E27
Stand material	aluminum
Maximum rack height	190 cm
Type, lamp power	fluorescent 28 W
Colorful temperature	5500 K
Country of Origin	China
Equipment	PS02 device with a cap-reflector - 2 pcs. Light studio stand FAN807 - 2 pcs. Fluorescent lamp FAN636 (28 W, 220 V base E27) - 2 pcs.

The cost of Fancier PS02 fluorescent kit is 6370 rubles.

FST ET-402 Kit

The set works on the basis of 85 W fluorescent lamps and 50x70 cm softboxes. Designed for portrait and product photos, as well as shooting short videos. Suitable for use by professional photographers and amateur photographers. The equipment has an average power of 170 W and an optimal color temperature of 5500K.

• emits a small amount of heat, due to which it does not heat the objects being filmed, which favorably distinguishes it from similar models with halogen sources;
• thanks to the features of the device, it allows for high-quality subject shooting, therefore it is excellent for shooting products from online stores, still lifes and jewelry;
• easy to use: assembly, disassembly and transportation.

The most significant drawback of the kit may be the low indicator of the total power of the illuminators, especially in comparison with other similar equipment in terms of price and configuration.

General characteristics of FST ET-402 Kit:

Options	Characteristics
Power consumption	170 W
Softbox size	50 x 70 cm
Plinth type	E27
Stand material	aluminum
Maximum rack height	200 cm
Type, lamp power	fluorescent 85 W
Colorful temperature	5500 K
Country of Origin	China
Equipment	Folding softbox with an E27 cartridge measuring 50x70 cm - 2 pcs. Lamps 85 W E27 fluorescent - 2 pcs. Studio stands 2 m - 2 pcs. Bag for storage and transportation.

The cost of FST ET-402 Kit is 9500 rubles.

FST-001 Kit

The set includes three light sources equipped with an E27 socket and twelve 45 W fluorescent photo lamps providing a color temperature of 5500K. In addition, the kit includes a handy bag, two aluminum stands (213 cm) and one stand with a crane bar (244 cm). The FST-001 creates a soft natural light that allows you to take photos and shoot videos both at close and far distances.

• the optimal number of light sources - 3 pcs.;
• the possibility of using for shooting objects that do not tolerate heat well due to the presence of special non-heating energy-saving photo lamps;
• no flickering of fluorescent lamps on video;
• equipment mobility;
• the presence of a special bag that allows you to use equipment in street conditions.

Given that the price and functionality of the equipment is suitable for both novice photographers and professionals, we can say that this model has no minuses.

General Features of FST-001 Kit:

Options	Characteristics
Power consumption	540 W
Softbox size	50 x 70 cm
Plinth type	E27
Stand material	aluminum
Maximum rack height	2 pieces - 213 cm, 1 piece - 240 cm
Type, lamp power	fluorescent 45 W
Colorful temperature	5500 K
Country of Origin	China
Equipment	Light source for 4 cartridges E27 - 3 pcs Lamp FST L-E27 45 W – 12 pcs Rack FST LS – 3 pcs Softbox FST 50x70 cm – 3 pcs Crossbar-crane Bag for storage and transportation

The cost of FST-001 Kit is 13450 rubles.

Fotokvant FL-13 KIT

Works on the basis of three lighting fixtures of 180 watts. The total power consumption is 540 watts. The set is suitable for lighting small studios. It provides for optimal configuration, since in addition to illuminators, three softboxes and three stands with a maximum height of 1.9 to 2.1 meters are supplied in the kit. as well as a two-section telescopic beam for the Fotokvant LSP-140 crane. The total weight of the assembled equipment is 2.5 kg.

• provides for the use of energy-saving lamps for studio illuminators with an E27 socket;
• thanks to the correct color temperature of 5500K, it provides pure white light, which frees you from lengthy post-processing of frames;
• is a mobile equipment that can be quickly and easily assembled and conveniently transported;
• suitable for use by both beginner amateur photographers and professional photographers.
• can be used as the only main or additional lighting equipment.

There are no serious deficiencies in the equipment. The only not significant minus, rather just an inconvenience, can be called the absence of remote control devices in the kit.

General characteristics of Fotokvant FL-13 KIT:

Options	Characteristics
Power consumption	540 W
Softbox size	50 x 70 cm
Plinth type	E27
Stand material	aluminum
Maximum rack height	2 pieces - 190 cm, 1 piece - 210 cm
Type, lamp power	fluorescent 45 W
Colorful temperature	5500 K
Country of Origin	China
Equipment	Lamp holders - 3 pcs. Softboxes 50x70 cm - 3 pcs. Lamps 45 W - 12 pcs. Crane bar Fotokvant LSP-140 - 1 pc. Rack - 3 pcs. Bag-case - 1 pc.

The cost of Fotokvant FL-13 KIT is 16250 rubles.

FST FK-5070 kit

The set is represented by an SB015 softbox with a standard size of 50x70 cm with an E27 universal cartridge, an FST L-210 stand and an 85W fluorescent lamp. The equipment rack is made of durable aluminum, has three sections, is equipped with a standard 5/8 mount and is able to rise to a height of 2.10 meters.

• allows you to create soft lighting in the room without unnecessary glare and light loss;
• ideal option for uniform lighting of portrait and subject shootings;
• thanks to equipping a fluorescent lamp with an E27 base, it is possible to use it in many standard lighting fixtures;
• budget price.

• There is only one light source.Moreover, if we take into account the budgetary cost of the equipment, then it is quite possible to purchase a second illuminator additionally.

General characteristics for FST FK-5070:

Options	Characteristics
Rated voltage	220 V
Softbox size	50 x 70 cm
Network cable length	2 m
Plinth type	E27
Stand material	aluminum
Maximum rack height	210 cm
Type, lamp power	fluorescent 85 W
Colorful temperature	5500 K
Country of Origin	China
Equipment	Lampholders - 1 pc. Softbox SB015 50x70 cm - 1 pc. Fluorescent lamp FST L-E27 - 1 pc. Three-section stand - 1 pc.

The cost of FST FK-5070 is 5270 rubles.

Sets of constant light costing over 20,000 rubles.

Falcon Eyes Qlbk-500 Kit

The Falcon Eyes QLBK-500 set is, first of all, a godsend for beginners, especially due to the fact that it makes it possible to evaluate the black and white pattern in advance. The kit is suitable for both portrait and product photography. Also, this model does an excellent job of lighting video shooting. Works on the basis of two halogen illuminators, which include two LM-2400A stands and two umbrellas.

• average power indicators - 500 W and color temperature - 3200K, which are ideal for advertising shooting;
• Bowens bayonet;
• the presence of a built-in processor that regulates the operation of the system, is responsible for the safety and duration of operation, controls the functioning of ventilation and provides a stable color temperature;
• smooth power adjustment from 0 to 100%;
• memory function.

The Falcon Eyes Qlbk-500 does not include a softbox, which must be purchased separately.For this model, it is recommended to buy the Falcon Eyes SBQ-6090 BW heat-resistant softbox with a honeycomb nozzle.

General characteristics of Falcon Eyes QLBK-500:

Options	Characteristics
Power consumption	1000 W
Softbox size	No
Stand material	aluminum
Maximum rack height	230 cm
Type, lamp power	halogen 500 W
Colorful temperature	3200 K
Country of Origin	China
Equipment	Illuminator QL-500BW halogen - 2 pcs Stand LM-2400A - 2 pcs Umbrella UR-48T- 2 pcs Bag (72x44x28 cm)

The cost of Falcon Eyes QLBK-500 is 23,000 rubles.

Grifon Creative SSS 1000 KIT Halogen Studio Light Kit

The set works on the basis of Grifon QL-1000 halogen illuminators, provided with high-quality characteristics. So each light source has smooth power control, is equipped with a silent cooling system and is made in a modern design. The equipment is intended for photo and video filming. The kit includes illuminators and nozzles with a Bowens mount. This model is a universal set for permanent studio lighting, includes three monoblocks with three lighting stands and heat-resistant softboxes.

• due to the heat resistance of softboxes, you can shoot at high temperatures;
• low degree of heat transfer of illuminators, which allows not to heat the objects and objects being filmed;
• a wide functional list and modern equipment equipment, which allows it to be used as the main photo studio without additional devices;
• thanks to the high power of halogen lights, it is ideal for portrait shooting.

The kit is a practically ready-to-work studio, which already speaks for itself about its versatility, which means that there are no significant disadvantages. The only thing that is more likely not a drawback, but simply an inconvenience is the high cost of the model, which is why not every photographer, especially a beginner, can afford to purchase it.

General characteristics of Grifon Creative SSS 1000 KIT:

Options	Characteristics
Power consumption 130 W	220 V
Softbox size	60 x 90 cm
Plinth type	E27
Stand material	aluminum
Maximum rack height	200 cm
Type, lamp power	fluorescent 26 W
Colorful temperature	5500 K
Country of Origin	China
Equipment	26W fluorescent lamp - 5 pcs. Studio stand 200 cm - 1 pc. Socket for lamps for 5 socles TL-5 – 1 pc. Softbox 60x90 with bayonet - 1 pc.

The cost of Grifon Creative SSS 1000 KIT is 48390 rubles.

FST Studio Kit

Universal powerful equipment with fluorescent lamps 5500K. Due to its high lighting power, it is perfect for almost all types of video shooting, as well as for still photography. The set includes softboxes that work only with fluorescent fixtures.

• provides special fluorescent lamps with a power of 85W for the E27 base, allowing for an optimal color temperature of 5500 K;
• provides for the presence of white, black and green backgrounds, allowing you to create the desired effect on the video;
• the set is quickly disassembled and assembled - it is enough to spend 2-3 minutes;
• thanks to the provided dimensions of the crane, it is possible to install illuminators above or below the object at the desired height.

It is rather difficult to determine the bright cons in the operation of this model.Perhaps the most significant shortcomings can be attributed only to its high cost.

General characteristics of FST Studio Kit:

Options	Characteristics
Power consumption	765 W
Softbox size	2 pieces - 50 x 70 cm; 1 piece - 50 x 50
Plinth type	E27
Stand material	aluminum
Maximum rack height	190 cm
Type, lamp power	fluorescent 85 W
Colorful temperature	5500 K
Country of Origin	China
Equipment	Background hanging system (hxw) 209x300cm (with quick assembly bar) Backgrounds: black, white and green 1.8x2.7m Lamp for 4 lamps - 2 pcs. Lamp for 1 lamp - 1 pc. Softbox 50x70 - 2 pcs. Softbox 50x50 -1 pc. Lamps 85W - 9 pcs. Racks 1.90m - 2 pcs. Crane - 1 pc. Carrying bag - 1 pc.

The cost of FST Studio Kit is 24570 rubles.

Results

When choosing which company is better and which model to buy, it is important to decide in advance on the purpose of further use of lighting: whether it will be a small traveling photo studio or a large photo salon, whether it will be used for subject, portrait, advertising or macro photography. You should also carefully consider the main characteristics of the devices, such as power indicators, equipment and appearance.

In 2022, the most popular are the budget sets of constant light from FST, Falcon Eyes and Fotokvant, the average price of which is no more than 15,000 rubles. The most popular model today can be called Fotokvant FL-12 KIT. The permanent lighting rating data for photo studios shows that it is not always the main thing how much a ready-made kit costs, it is more important that it be powerful, convenient and reliable.