What is a ring lamp and what is it for
The popularization of studio photography, cosmetology and blogging has led to the proliferation of ring lamps. They help to achieve a smooth soft light, necessary for creating a photo or video, comfortable work of the makeup artist when applying makeup.
What is a ring lamp, its purpose
A ring light is a spotlight that looks like a hollow ring. Its diameter ranges from 30 to 48 cm. The light comes from diodes, which are installed on the perimeter. On good models, the number of diodes reaches 450 pieces.
The ring is mounted on a tripod or tripod, which is placed on the table. A flexible holder provides mobility. The device gives a glow with a temperature from 2000 to 5500 K, and a switch helps to adjust this parameter. It gives you the opportunity to achieve illumination with better color rendering.
Advantages, disadvantages and main differences from the softbox
When choosing a ring lamp, it is worth considering its specifics.
Pros:
- organization of natural light;
- elimination of visual defects;
- conditions for night shooting;
- different temperatures of light;
- no overheating even with very intensive use;
- no flicker.
Cons:
- relatively short lifespan;
- gradual loss of brightness;
- a lot of fakes on the market;
- Some models are powered by USB connector, which implies a limitation in power.
A circular light fixture is sometimes compared to a softbox. They have a lot in common, but there are also distinct differences. A softbox creates a bright, directional stream of light while a circular lamp diffuses it. For this reason, you may need to buy several softboxes at once for the desired effect, which are similar to a single circular source.
The features of the device include the ability to rotate it at any angle or mount it in a tripod for photography.
Classification of circular lamps
Circular illuminators vary in size, power, number of LEDs and functionality. However, the main difference concerns the light source used. The device can be LED or fluorescent.
In a separate group there are devices with RGB-lighting, which can adjust the shade. Such devices should be chosen only if the color change is really necessary. Otherwise, it will turn out to be an unjustified investment.
LED devices are common in professional photographers and operators. Lens LEDs are slightly worse in power, in addition, they create significant interference in the process of shooting. The most popular LED devices are those with SMD diodes without a lens. They provide bright light with a small number of sources, do not create interference, and have a longer life.
In fluorescent illuminators, the main source of light is the phosphor applied to the bulb. Compared to LED sources, the device loses in power and durability. The presence of mercury vapor in the bulb poses a risk in operation and requires special disposal of failed sources.
What ring lamp is better to choose - depends on the specific purpose of the user, the operating conditions and the tasks to be solved.
Selection criteria for a ring lamp
In order not to puzzle over how to choose the right ring lamp, an overview of the main characteristics of the device is made:
- Power. It is from the power in most cases depends on the efficiency of the electric device. It is desirable to select models with an indicator of at least 80 W.
- Type of source. In the professional environment, SMD type diodes are popular.
- Diameter. The optimal value is considered 45 cm.
- Adjustment of the heat of illumination. Useful feature that helps you select the mode for the given conditions.
- Kit. It is better to choose a product equipped with tripods or clamps. This increases its versatility and comfort in solving specific problems.
- Autonomy. Most of the devices work from the network, but you can also find rechargeable models.
- Remote control. The presence of a remote control is characteristic of premium models.
For use by makeup artists
Hairdresser, makeup artist or beautician is quite suitable for a small lamp with a diameter of 30 to 40 cm. This is important to consider the power of the light output and the angle of dispersion. Power should be preferably not less than 70 watts, and the scattering angle as wide as possible.
Video lesson: how to choose the right light for makeup
For bloggers
The choice of device for bloggers directly depends on the topic of the blog. If it is a conversational genre, involving the constant presence of a person in the frame, you will need a studio model of semi-professional or professional level.
Review of ring lamps for the blogger
For photography.
Beginner photographers and amateurs will be sufficient for a device with a small diameter, while professionals are better to buy large, powerful lights. They are optimized for studio work and create the necessary effect when shooting models.
PHOTO STUDIO: SOFTBOXES VS. RINGBOXES. WHAT'S BETTER.
Your own making of a ring light
If you have no desire or opportunity to buy a light source in a store, you can try to make it yourself. This process will require minimal skills with electrical equipment and a simple set of tools.
Components needed for manufacturing and possible alternatives
You will need the following tools:
- LED strip;
- cardboard;
- compass;
- ruler;
- knife or scissors;
- wire;
- duct tape;
- thermal gun.
Ring light for 35 watts with your own hands
Instructions for making:
- On cardboard, draw a blank of the desired diameter, then cut two rings.
- Fix the cut wire to the cardboard with a heat gun. This step is necessary to increase the strength of the created device.
- Make the handle from a board, polymer or composite material.
- Place the handle between two cardboard rings.
- Fill all gaps and gaps with hot melt glue.
- Wrap the construction from the outside with duct tape.
- Place a diode strip around the circumference.
Instead of a ring lamp, you can use a softbox. With its help, it will not be a problem to get soft shadows and provide optimal lighting of the desired area. Also an effective analogue would be a photoflash, which is a pulsed illuminator in the shape of a circle. Placed around the lens of a professional camera and used for studio photography. Similar to a circular source, the flash can create interesting effects in photos.