5 Tips For Choosing the Best Professional Video Lighting on a Budget

When it comes to filming, having the right professional video lighting setup is crucial for capturing high-quality footage. However, you don't necessarily need to break the bank to achieve excellent lighting. In this article, we will guide you through the process of choosing the best video lighting kit on a budget. 

How to Choose The Best Video Lighting Kit for Your Training Videos?

Cost-Benefit Analysis

Before diving into the world of video lighting, it's essential to conduct a cost-benefit analysis. While expensive lighting setups are available, you can achieve impressive results without spending a fortune. 

Consider setting a budget and aim for lights that are priced around $100 to $150 per uni. We believe the best video lighting kit can be bought for under $200, such as these Neewer Dimmable Lights Bi-Color 2 Pack we use in our studio. 

These lights come with adjustable settings and different temperatures, allowing you to customize the lighting to suit your needs. They can be plugged into a wall outlet or operated using batteries, providing flexibility for various shooting locations.

Remember, It's not about the price tag but rather how you set up and use the lights effectively.

Assess Your Location

The lighting requirements for your shoot will depend on the location. If you're filming outdoors during daylight hours, natural light may be sufficient, and you may only need a reflector or shade to manipulate the light. However, shooting outside during darker conditions or in specific settings may require additional lighting. Assess the environment carefully to determine the lighting equipment you need.

Avoid Overkill

Once you've assessed your location, it's important not to go overboard with unnecessary equipment. Start with the basics and add equipment as needed. Overbuying can lead to wasted resources and unnecessary expenses. Typically, you'll only need up to three light sources for your setup. If you opt for the recommended lights mentioned earlier, purchasing two of them should be sufficient to fulfill your lighting needs.

Utilize Existing Light Sources

Remember that the best lighting for a video doesn't necessarily require a dedicated video light. In some cases, you can leverage existing light sources in your shooting location. For example, if there are overhead lights or lamps available, you can incorporate them as part of your three light sources. Fill in the remaining light sources with the purchased set of budget-friendly lights.

Creativity in Lighting

Don't limit yourself to traditional lighting setups. Get creative with the available resources in your location. Experiment with different angles, reflections, and shadows to achieve unique and visually appealing lighting effects. By thinking outside the box, you can make the most of your budget while still achieving professional-looking results.

Conclusion

When choosing a professional video lighting setup on a budget, remember that it's not about the price tag but rather how you utilize the equipment. Conduct a cost-benefit analysis, set a budget, and explore affordable lighting options that offer value for money. Assess your shooting location and determine the number of light sources you need. Don't be afraid to get creative and leverage existing light sources to enhance your lighting setup. With these tips in mind, you can create impressive videos without breaking the bank.