Aputure Amaran AL-MW$209 | aputure.com
The Aputure Amaran AL-MW is a small, single-color, continuous LED light that runs on battery power and can be set to 10 selectable output levels. It has high TLCI and CRI ratings for color accuracy, as well as a couple other features not usually found on a light at this price, such as special effects modes, while its small size of 117.5 x 43.5 x 32mm (4.6 x 1.7 x 1.25 in.) makes it ultra-portable.
When I learned about this light I was intrigued to see if it could solve a couple of issues for me. I was in need of a small light for product shots, video and stills. I didnīt need a huge output as it was going to be a fill or back light. I wanted something small, easy to control and battery powered. I also wanted a light that didnīt exhibit a loss of illumination level as the battery life faded, as some lights do. This can be really annoying, so I needed a light that just dies (with a warning beforehand) when the battery reaches a certain level. The Aputure Amaran AL-MW seemed to fit the bill.
Key features
Built in battery with USB-C charging
Up to 24 hours continuous operation (according to manufacturer)
10 selectable output levels
Five `special effects` lighting modes
Included filters and diffusers
IP68 rated to 10m (30 ft.)
>95 CRI and TLCI ratings
One thing that`s unusual about this light is that it offers five lighting effects: lightning, fireworks, TV, a (faulty) light bulb and paparazzi. Usually if you need these effects on a shoot you have to employ some additional equipment, or someone waving a flag or reflector in front of the light. On top of that, the light is submersible to 10m (30 ft.), opening the door to some creative uses.
The light`s 110-element C.O.B (chip on board) structure is semi-random, avoiding the multiple shadows seen with some LED lights.
Uses
Iīve been using the AL-MW for shoots in a table top environment, mainly for product shots. Itīs ideal for t ...
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