The ULANZI Select VL-81LED Video Light has become an indispensable part of my video and photography kit, and I’m excited to share my extensive experience with this versatile light.
For years, I struggled with inconsistent lighting in my videos. Poor lighting made my footage look amateurish, obscuring details and creating an overall unprofessional aesthetic. This impacted the quality of my work and frustrated my efforts to create engaging content. A reliable, portable, and high-quality light source was desperately needed to improve my videos significantly, and the promise of the VL-81LED seemed like the answer.
- 【81 Beads Fill Light with Softbox】The VL-81 LED video light comes with 81 beads, CRI95 + 3200k-5600k, brighter, bigger angle. Softbox design, not dazzling
- 【Warm Light and White Light Adjustable】 41 white light beads + 40 warm light beads, color temperature 3200K-5600K, can be adjusted quickly according to the change of application scenario. Built-in...
- 【3000mAh Large Capacity Battery】 3000mAh built-in lithium battery: Charging time is 3 hours, maximum brightness output is up to 150 minutes, minimum brightness output is up to 480 minutes
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Video Light
Before purchasing a video light, it’s crucial to consider several factors. What type of content will you be creating? Vlogging, filmmaking, or product photography all have different lighting requirements. Think about the size and portability – do you need something compact for travel, or a larger, more powerful light for studio use? Battery life is essential; you don’t want to be caught with a dead light during an important shoot. Also, consider the light’s colour temperature adjustability (allowing for warm or cool light tones), its brightness levels, and the types of mounts and accessories compatible with your existing equipment. Ultimately, choosing the right video light depends on your specific needs and budget. If you only need occasional, basic supplemental lighting, a simpler, cheaper option might suffice. However, for consistent, high-quality video and photography, a more advanced light, such as the ULANZI Select VL-81LED, is a worthwhile investment.
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- 【MINI SIZE SOFTBOX WITH SUPERIOR BRIGHTNESS】NiceVeedi softbox adopts a smaller size but the same level of brightness. This softbox lighting kit equipped with LED light which is equivalent to a 50W...
- ❤Adjustable LED Panel Kit: The small LED panel light can be adjusted 180 degrees to meet your different requirements of suitable shooting angle; the brightness of the USB LED light can be adjusted...
Introducing the ULANZI Select VL-81LED Video Light
The ULANZI Select VL-81LED Video Light with Softbox is a compact, versatile LED panel designed for photographers and videographers on the go. It boasts 81 LED beads, offering a CRI95+ rating for accurate color reproduction. Its bi-color temperature adjustment (3200K-5600K) allows for versatile lighting, whether you need warm or cool tones. The included softbox diffuses the light, preventing harsh shadows. Compared to other lights in its price range, the VL-81LED stands out with its build quality, long battery life (up to 480 minutes at minimum brightness), and impressive features. It’s ideal for vloggers, mobile filmmakers, and anyone needing a portable, powerful, and reliable light source. However, it’s not suitable for large-scale professional productions demanding extremely high lumen output.
Pros:
* Compact and portable design.
* Excellent color rendering (CRI 95+).
* Adjustable color temperature (3200K-5600K).
* Long battery life (up to 480 minutes).
* Multiple mounting options.
Cons:
* Brightness might be insufficient for very large spaces or professional shoots.
* The plastic housing feels slightly less robust than some metal alternatives.
* No included carrying case.
Exploring the Features and Benefits of the VL-81LED
Brightness and Color Temperature Control
The VL-81LED‘s brightness is remarkably adjustable, easily going from a subtle fill light to a powerful main source. This control, combined with the color temperature adjustment, allows for precise lighting adjustments to match any scene or ambiance. The ability to switch between warm and cool light tones is invaluable for creating specific moods or correcting color casts in different environments.
Battery Life and Charging
The 3000mAh rechargeable battery offers impressive longevity, allowing for extended shooting sessions. The USB-C charging port is convenient and widely compatible with modern devices. I’ve found the battery life to be more than sufficient for most of my shoots, even on longer outdoor video projects. The fast charging time is also a big plus.
Mounting Options and Compatibility
The inclusion of multiple cold shoe mounts and a 1/4-inch screw thread on the bottom provides immense flexibility. I can easily attach the VL-81LED to my camera, tripod, or any other compatible rig. This versatility is crucial for adapting to different shooting scenarios. The light’s compatibility with a wide range of cameras, including GoPro, Sony Alpha, and DJI Osmo devices, makes it extremely convenient to use.
Softbox and Light Diffusion
The built-in softbox is a fantastic feature. It significantly softens the light, reducing harsh shadows and creating a more natural, pleasing look. This is particularly beneficial for portrait photography and video where a soft, even light is crucial. It’s a noticeable improvement over harsh, direct LED light.
User Feedback and Experiences
Online reviews for the ULANZI Select VL-81LED are overwhelmingly positive. Many users praise its portability, brightness, and color accuracy. Several reviewers highlight its value for money, citing its impressive feature set at a competitive price point. While some users have noted the plastic construction, the overall consensus is that this is a reliable and high-performing light for its price.
Final Verdict: A Highly Recommended Video Light
The consistent lighting problems I faced are now a thing of the past thanks to the ULANZI Select VL-81LED Video Light. Its portability, ease of use, adjustable brightness and color temperature, and long battery life make it an exceptional choice for both beginners and experienced creators. The light’s versatility and ability to adapt to different shooting setups make it a must-have for anyone wanting to improve the quality of their videos or photographs. If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable video light, click here to check out the ULANZI Select VL-81LED and elevate your creative projects.
Last update on 2025-06-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API