Anyone have experience with LED studio light-sources?

[Benjamin Marks]

Has anyone ever lit a subject with panel LEDs like this:
http://www.amazon.com/light-Panel-Video-lighting-Fancier/dp/B003UOOZAY/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1317846060&sr=1-1

(e.g. 500 LED light Panel Led Video lighting Led Lite Panel by Fancier)

Can they be diffused? How powerful are they compared to a studio flash? Any recommendations, or things to watch out for?

Ben Marks

 

[x-ray]

I've used several variations of CINE led's in the past few years. Unfortunately I don't remember the name but was very pleased with them. One variation was quite small and could be battery powered or AC and switched from daylight to tungsten color temp. They were easy to stick behind things on a wall and light those dark corners. These were around 3x6 inches and did give a rather harsh light but could be diffused easily.

The second was roughly 14x14 inches and had a dimmer and barn doors. It was daylight only and ran on battery or AC. Nice light and could be diffused with no problem.

The catch is they aren't like studio lights. Power is limited but make a great fill or key light under interior conditions. I don't think I would want them as my only light kit due to limited output relative to strobes. I don't know anything about the lights you're looking at but the ones I've used were very expensive.

Try finding a CINE rental house in your area and rent a set and see how you like them

 

[Benjamin Marks]

Thanks, x-ray. Appreciate the feedback. - ben