Speedlights vs studio strobes: choosing a flash
Speedlights are portable; strobes are powerful. Compare power, recycle time, modifiers and costs to choose the right flash.
Photo by Tom Pumford on Unsplash
Flash freezes motion, overpowers the sun and creates studio light anywhere. Choosing the right type depends on how you work.
Speedlights
Small flashes that mount on the camera’s hot shoe, like the Sony HVL-F60RM2 or Godox speedlights.
- Portable, battery powered and affordable
- TTL and high-speed sync
- Enough power for events, portraits and small modifiers
Studio strobes and monolights
Larger flashes with more power, plugged in or battery powered.
- Overpower midday sun and light large groups
- Faster recycle at high power
- Use large softboxes and modifiers
Portable strobes
Battery strobes like the Godox AD series combine power with portability for outdoor shoots.
Triggers
Wireless triggers like the Godox X3 control power and groups from the camera.
Which to choose
- Events, weddings and travel: speedlights
- Studio portraits, products and outdoor fashion: strobes
- Mixed work: one or two speedlights plus a portable strobe
Rent for big jobs
Renting extra lights for a large shoot is cheaper than buying a full kit.
Want to put this tip into practice with pro gear? Rent cameras and lenses in Mérida, or hire us for the shoot. WhatsApp →
