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It used to be that using speedlights, strobes, softboxes, and other expensive lighting equipment was the only way to go when doing portrait photography.

Not any more.

There are numerous options now to achieve professional-looking portraits without breaking the bank with expensive gear. 

One of these ways is to use on-camera video lights. Yes, video lights to do portrait photography! They are light, portable, and less expensive than the traditional studio lighting options. These types of lights are sometimes referred to as continuous lighting. 

On-camera video lights can be an excellent lighting solution for portraits. More and more photographers are successfully using them for their portrait sessions. They can offer interesting lighting options and can also give you better creative control. 

What are On-camera Video Lights

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Continuous lighting has its advantages, and one of the most important ones is that you get to see and direct your light as you want it — no fussing with testing flash lighting and time-consuming adjustments.  

Videographers use on-camera video lights to light up their scenes when filming. These video lights are gaining popularity with photographers as well. Beginners and professionals alike can learn to use continuous lighting for portraits. They are simple to use, are easy to transport, and provide quality lighting for a variety of situations. 

They attach to your camera but can also be fixed on a tripod for even more varied lighting effects.

One of the on-camera video lights that we especially like is the Litra Torch LitraPro. It’s a pioneer in the full spectrum bi-color compact light category. It’s light, compact, and can be controlled with an app on your smartphone. It can accommodate items like a softbox for even greater versatility.

How to Use On-camera Lights for Portraits

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You can use the on-camera lights as the main light, the fill light, backlight, or a combination. You can set up a combination of lights to create your desired effect. Remember that LED video lights don’t have the same range as larger, traditional portrait lighting and this will provide more dramatic portraits.  

Some video lights can accommodate a diffuser or small softboxes, and this can help smooth the light for your portraits.

Portrait Lighting Tips

• The on-camera video light may create harsh background shadows. Make sure to adjust the direction and intensity of the light.
• Get those catch lights! One excellent thing about video lights is the catch lights that they create in the eyes. This effect is much better than with larger lighting.
• Move away. The closer the light is to your model, the brighter and harsher the light will be.

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Trend Alert: These on-camera video lights have become popular with wedding photographers to get those exciting shots that light up the subjects just right.

On-camera video lights will not always be the perfect option for your portrait photography, but they sure are a great solution when you want simple, inexpensive, and versatile lighting.