Godox V1 V1-S V1S Round Head Camera Flash for Sony: A Comprehensive Review

For years, I struggled with inconsistent lighting in my photography. Achieving professional-looking images felt impossible without investing in expensive studio equipment. A reliable, portable, and versatile flash system seemed like the solution, but the options felt overwhelming. The Godox V1 V1-S V1S Round Head Camera Flash promised to solve this, and after extensive use, I can confidently share my experience.

The world of speedlight flashes offers various solutions for photographers seeking better lighting control and creativity. The key benefits include improved image quality through more precise lighting control, enhanced portability over bulky studio strobes, and the ability to creatively shape light using modifiers. The ideal buyer is a photographer, whether professional or enthusiast, who wants to elevate their photography beyond built-in camera flash. This includes portrait photographers, event photographers, and anyone who shoots in low-light conditions. Those primarily using their camera’s built-in flash or already owning high-end studio strobes might not find this necessary. Before buying any speedlight, consider your budget, compatibility with your camera system, desired features (like high-speed sync or TTL capabilities), and the type of photography you primarily undertake.

Godox V1 V1-S V1S Round Head Camera Flash for Sony Flash Speedlight Speedlite Light,76Ws 2.4G...
  • Compatible for: Godox V1-S Compatible for Sony cameras(TTL autoflash).Godox V1-S Compatible for Sony SLR Cameras and Mirrorless Cameras.Godox V1-S Compatible for Sony...
  • Excellent light effects & Can be Used On or Off the Camera: Distributing even light from center to edge, providing natural and beautiful light effect V1 Round flash head's light effect is softer and...
  • High-Performance Li-ion Battery: 7.2V/2600mAh Battery offers 1.5s recycling time and 480 full power shots

Introducing the Godox V1 V1-S V1S

The Godox V1 V1-S V1S Round Head Camera Flash for Sony is a powerful and versatile speedlight designed for Sony cameras. It promises exceptional light quality, reliable performance, and a wealth of features at a competitive price point. Compared to some market leaders, the Godox V1-S offers similar performance at a lower cost. Previous Godox models lacked some of the refined features this model offers. This flash is perfect for photographers who need a powerful, portable, and feature-rich lighting solution compatible with their Sony cameras. It’s less ideal for those on extremely tight budgets or who need a flash with specific features not offered by this model.

  • Pros:
    • Excellent light quality
    • Fast recycle time
    • Robust build quality
    • Versatile feature set
    • Competitive price
  • Cons:
    • Some users report issues with the hot shoe mount durability.
    • Accessories sold separately can increase the overall cost.
    • The user manual could be more detailed for certain advanced functions.
Bestseller No. 1
Fujifilm 16651497 EF-X8 Shoe Mount Flash
  • Small shoe mounted flash. No additional battery is required to power this flash as it draws power directly from the camera battery.
SaleBestseller No. 2
SmallRig Cold Shoe Mount Adapter Bracket Hot Shoe with 1/4" Thread for Camera Cage Flash LED Moniter...
  • Standard shoe mount Compatible: allow you to attache Micorphone, Flash, LED, Handle, etc. Fit for all the accessories with 1/4"-20 threaded holes.
Bestseller No. 3
Flash Shoe Mount Adapter, 3PCS Flash Cold Shoe Mount Adapter Flash Shoe Mount Flash Stand Adapter...
  • FLASH SUPPORT: This standard hot shoe adapter supports most flashes and is suitable for many brands of flash adapters, with a very high degree of adaptation.

Exploring the Features and Benefits of the Godox V1-S

Light Quality and Distribution

The round head design of the Godox V1-S is a game-changer. Unlike traditional rectangular flash heads, it produces a softer, more even light distribution, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a more natural-looking illumination. This is particularly beneficial for portrait photography, where soft lighting is key to flattering subjects. The even light spread significantly reduces the need for extensive post-processing to correct harsh shadows, saving valuable editing time.

Power and Performance

The Godox V1-S boasts a powerful 76Ws output, providing ample power for various shooting situations. The 1.5-second recycle time is impressively fast, allowing for quick shooting sequences without long waits between flashes. This speed is crucial for capturing fleeting moments and maintaining a fast workflow, especially during busy events or when shooting action sequences.

Wireless Functionality and Control

The integrated Godox 2.4G wireless X system offers seamless integration with other Godox flashes and transmitters. This allows for complex lighting setups with multiple flashes, controlled wirelessly from a single point. The ability to control multiple flashes off-camera opens up a world of creative lighting possibilities, enhancing flexibility and efficiency in diverse shooting environments.

High-Speed Sync (HSS)

The Godox V1-S‘s support for high-speed sync (up to 1/8000s) is a significant advantage. This feature allows the flash to synchronize with fast shutter speeds, even in bright daylight. This is particularly valuable when you need to use a shallow depth of field with a wide aperture while maintaining control over ambient light.

Battery Life and Charging

The included 2600mAh Li-ion battery provides ample power for 480 full-power flashes. The battery’s performance in terms of power and recharge speed is impressive. The long battery life and quick charging mean fewer interruptions during shoots. This extended battery life allows for longer shoots without needing to worry about power interruptions.

LED Modeling Lamp

The built-in LED modeling lamp is a practical addition. It allows you to preview the lighting effect before taking the actual shot. The 10-level adjustable brightness is helpful in fine-tuning the lighting setup according to your needs. This feature is particularly helpful in assessing the lighting’s impact on the subject before capturing the final image, avoiding unexpected results.

User Feedback on the Godox V1-S

My own experiences are mirrored by many online reviews. Users consistently praise the Godox V1-S for its excellent light quality, fast recycle time, and user-friendly interface. However, a small number of users have reported issues with the hot shoe mount’s durability. While the vast majority have positive experiences, it’s important to be aware of this potential issue.

Final Verdict: A Powerful and Versatile Flash

The challenges of inconsistent lighting and limited control over light can significantly impact the quality of your photos. The Godox V1 V1-S V1S effectively addresses these problems. Its superior light quality, speed, wireless capabilities, and competitive price make it a compelling choice for photographers seeking to elevate their work. Its versatility and feature set provide great value for the price. To experience the difference, click here to check out the Godox V1-S today!

Last update on 2025-06-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API