The Top Five Ring Lights For Video And Photography

Understanding Ring Lights

When it comes to ring lights, also known as circle lights, there are a lot of variations out there and the options seem endless. You likely have many questions. Big or small? Which brand? Which ring light is the best for my needs? Here are the top five-ring lights for video and photography, taking into account size, best prices, color temperature, and type of mount.

In general, the larger the ring light the better. Larger ring lights will provide more even lighting, whereas smaller ring lights can create hot spots. The power of the light is also important to consider. If you’ll be using the light for video, you’ll want a light that is bright enough to illuminate your subject without washing them out.

Most options are variations of a dimmable ring light, which allow you to control the brightness. Your circle light may also have adjustable color temperature control. This allows for hue changes from orange to white.

If you’ll be using the light for video, you may want a cooler light (whiter) so that your subject doesn’t look washed out. For photography, you may want a warmer light (oranger) to add some dimension to your shots. Ring lights work great as a fill light for portrait photography too. Many brands like Elgato Key Light, Sensyne, etc. offer a wide range of ring lights. You can check out our top picks below.

10” Ring Light With 50” Extendable Tripod Stand By SENSYNE

The 10” Ring Light with 50” Extendable Tripod Stand by SENSYNE is a great starter ring light that won’t break the bank. With 3 warmth settings and 10 brightness settings, you have versatility in a compact product. The size of 10 inches should help to mitigate hot spots for close shots. This ring light is optimal for close video shots, whether for video chat or filming your close-up TikTok.

Pros:

• Budget-Friendly
• 3 Color Temperatures
• Universal Phone Mount and 1/4″ Camera Mount
• Comes with Bluetooth Camera Remote

Con’s

• 10″ Smaller Diameter (more prone to hot spots)
• Only 10 Brightness Settings

12” Selfie Ring Light With 63” Adjustable Tripod By Waulnpekq

The 12” Selfie Ring Light with 63” Adjustable Tripod light stand by Waulnpekq is a great ring light for those who want to be able to control their lighting more. With 10 brightness settings, you’ll be able to dial in the perfect amount of light for your needs. The larger size also means that there is less of a chance for hot spots. This light is perfect for those who want to film themselves talking or doing makeup tutorials.

<h3″>Pros:

• 12″ Medium Diameter
• Budget-Friendly
• Comes with Bluetooth Camera Remote
• Gooseneck Phone Holder

Cons:

• White Color Temperature Only
• Lighting Controls On Power Cord
• USB Powered (requires an adapter for wall plug)

Neewer Ring Light Kit: 18″ By Neewer

The Neewer 18″ Ring Light Kit is an excellent choice for those who want a little more power and control. With nearly continuous brightness settings, you can find the perfect amount of light for your needs. The 18-inch size also provides more even lighting and less chance for hot spots. This circle light is high quality and perfect for those who want to film themselves talking, do video chats, or even image products due to the large size of the ring light.

Pros:

• Nearly Continuous Brightness Settings
• 18″ in Diameter
• Comes with Bluetooth Camera Remote
• Comes with Carrying Case
• Phone Holder & 1/4″ Camera Mount

Cons:

• More Expensive
• 2 Temperature Settings

19-Inch LED Ring Light LCD Display Touch Screen By EOTO LIGHT

The 19-inch LED Ring Light LCD Display Touch Screen by EOTO LIGHT is the Cadillac of ring lights. With nearly continuous brightness settings from 10% to 100% brightness and 3 color temperature settings, you can find the perfect amount of light for your needs. The larger size also provides more even lighting and less chance for hot spots. This ring light is perfect for those who want a high-quality ring light to film themselves live streaming, do video chats, or even image products.

Pros:

• Nearly Continuous Brightness Settings
• 19 in Diameter
• LCD Display Touch Screen
• Comes with Carrying Case
• 3 – Phone Holders & 1/4″ Camera Mount
• Wireless Camera and Light Controllers via Bluetooth receiver
• USB Charging Outlet On Light

Cons:

• Expensive

10″ Ring Light (RGB) By VALUSIN

For those who want to complement RGB lighting in their room or on their stream, VALUSINNO has totally delivered. The 10″ Ring Light by VALUSINNO features 17 colors, versatile phone mounting options, and even camera mounting capabilities, all in an affordable and compact package.

Pros:

• 17 Colors of RGB Fun
• Budget-Friendly
• Universal Phone Mount and 1/4″ Camera Mount
• Comes with Bluetooth Camera Remote

Con’s

• 10″ Smaller Diameter (more prone to hot spots)
• Lower Traditional Photography Versatility

Remember, It’s All About What You Need From A Ring Light

Everyone has different needs from their ring light based on cost, use intent, travel requirements, and camera choice. It’s important to think about what YOU need from a ring light before making your purchase to ensure that you’re getting the perfect ring light for your needs. Consider the size, power, and color temperature of the light, as well as the type of mount that will best suit your needs. You’ll also want to think about how you’ll be using the light, whether you’ll be using it for video or photography, or both. For example, if you are into shooting makeup tutorials, a ring light would be great for you because of the shadowless soft light that it produces.

Do you need an 18-inch ring light? What about a 12-inch medium diameter? What about the power of the ring light? Does it need to be USB powered or can it run off of batteries? What color temperature do you need? What about the type of camera mount? Can it be fitted on a hot shoe adapter? Is it operable with a wireless remote? All of these factors are important to consider when choosing the best ring light for your needs. So, take your time, do your research and pick the perfect ring light for you!