Overview

The ALTSON Photography Lighting Kit AM-23 is a versatile, compact lighting solution designed for both photography and video work. This adjustable LED light panel is USB-powered, offering great flexibility by allowing it to be plugged into various power sources like a PC or mobile power bank. It also comes with a tripod stand that extends from 27.19″ to 48.39″, providing height adjustments for different shooting setups. Additionally, the kit includes color filters and a diffuser, making it easy to tailor the light to specific needs and achieving a wide range of lighting effects.

Features & Benefits

This photography lighting kit boasts a dimmable LED light with a brightness range of 10% to 100%, giving users full control over lighting intensity. The inclusion of 9 color filters ensures a variety of lighting moods for different setups, whether you're shooting portraits, products, or video. Being USB-powered makes it convenient for on-the-go use, eliminating the need for bulky AC power sources. Its lightweight and portable design are ideal for tabletop photography and quick setups, while the included diffuser helps ensure soft, even lighting across your subject.

Best For

This lighting kit is perfect for a wide range of users, particularly content creators who need reliable lighting for live streaming, YouTube videos, and podcasts. It's also ideal for photographers in search of a flexible and portable solution, as well as video creators at the beginner to intermediate level. Those looking for an affordable yet effective lighting option will find this kit well-suited to their needs. Additionally, small business owners who require professional-quality product photography or need lighting for social media content will benefit from the versatile setup this kit provides.

User Feedback

Users appreciate the ALTSON Photography Lighting Kit AM-23 for its adjustable brightness and ease of use, which makes it perfect for a variety of shooting scenarios. However, some have mentioned that the tripod feels a bit flimsy when fully extended, although it remains functional. The 9 color filters are widely praised for providing excellent versatility in different lighting conditions, enhancing the overall shooting experience. On the downside, a few users have pointed out that while the USB-powered design is convenient, it doesn't offer the same brightness as traditional AC-powered lighting systems.

Pros

  • This photography lighting kit is USB-powered, making it highly portable for on-the-go use.
  • The adjustable brightness (10%-100%) allows for precise control over lighting in various settings.
  • Users appreciate the 9 included color filters for versatile lighting effects in different environments.
  • Compact size and lightweight design make it ideal for tabletop and small space photography.
  • The tripod's extendable height offers flexibility for a range of shooting angles and setups.
  • Affordable yet effective for beginner to intermediate creators looking for a budget-friendly lighting solution.

Cons

  • Some users find the tripod flimsy at higher extensions, leading to stability concerns.
  • The USB-powered option is convenient but lacks the brightness needed for large-scale or professional shoots.
  • A few users report that the light output is not bright enough in very well-lit rooms or outdoor setups.
  • While portable, the light panel may not meet the needs of those requiring high-end lighting for commercial work.
  • The included tripod may not be durable enough for heavy or frequent use in larger studios.
  • Some users feel the color filters could be more varied to offer additional lighting moods.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from multiple platforms and languages, we found that the ALTSON Photography Lighting Kit AM-23 generally impresses users with its affordability and functionality. The scores reflect a balance of strengths and some minor concerns, with feedback spanning diverse sources and regions. Authentic reviews were prioritized, filtering out spam, bots, and incentivized comments to ensure the highest quality insights. Both positive features and user-reported issues are represented in the ratings.

Value for Money
88%
Many users find this lighting kit to be an excellent balance of affordability and functionality. The USB-powered design, combined with adjustable brightness and versatile color filters, provides great value for content creators and photographers on a budget. Its compact size also adds to its convenience, making it suitable for a wide range of settings.
Some buyers feel that while the kit offers decent features, it lacks some premium qualities found in higher-end lighting setups. A few users have also mentioned that the build quality doesn't justify the price for long-term durability, especially for heavy use in professional settings.
Lighting Quality
84%
The lighting quality is praised for being bright enough for most indoor photography and video work. The dimmable LED with a 10%-100% brightness range allows users to achieve the perfect lighting setup. The inclusion of 9 color filters adds an extra level of customization, enabling users to create varied moods for different shoots.
A few users report that the light output is not as intense as they would like, especially for larger setups or outdoor use. The overall brightness may fall short compared to higher-end AC-powered lights, which can limit its effectiveness in more demanding professional environments.
Ease of Use
91%
The setup process is straightforward, and many buyers appreciate how easy it is to adjust the light to their needs. The included tripod stand offers flexibility in height adjustments, making it suitable for both tabletop and larger setups. The USB-powered design adds convenience, allowing for quick connections to a variety of devices.
Some users find that the tripod feels slightly flimsy, especially when extended to its maximum height. While functional, it may not provide the most stable base when fully extended, which can be a concern during more dynamic shoots or when working in outdoor environments.
Portability/Size
90%
Users love how lightweight and compact the kit is, making it perfect for on-the-go shoots, especially for travel or outdoor use. Its small size doesn't compromise performance, and the easy-to-carry design allows users to pack it into smaller spaces or take it along to shoots without hassle.
A few buyers note that while the size is convenient, the small light panel may not be sufficient for larger spaces or more expansive projects. For users needing a higher-powered setup, the compact size might feel limiting in more demanding professional scenarios.
Tripod Stability
65%
35%
The tripod's height range offers versatility and makes it easy to adapt to different shooting conditions. It’s adjustable, which is a plus for users who need different heights for various angles and setups. Many users find that it works well for indoor and tabletop shooting scenarios.
Several users report that the tripod feels unstable when extended to its maximum height, especially in situations where the kit needs to be used for longer or more demanding shoots. This instability can lead to minor tipping issues, affecting the overall reliability during use.
Brightness Control
87%
The dimmable feature allows users to easily control the brightness, which is useful for adjusting to different environments. Whether shooting videos or taking photos, the smooth adjustment from 10% to 100% provides a high level of customization.
Some users mention that the brightness range, while adjustable, might not be sufficient for certain high-demand situations. In particular, the maximum brightness level falls short compared to other professional lighting setups, making it less ideal for larger studio environments.
Build Quality
76%
24%
The product’s build quality is decent for its price range, with most users finding it functional and reliable for everyday use. The lightweight construction makes it easy to move around and set up quickly, adding to the overall ease of use.
A few buyers have noted concerns with the plastic parts feeling somewhat flimsy and not as durable as expected. Some long-term users have reported that the light panel and tripod might not hold up well to heavy or frequent use, raising questions about the product’s longevity.
Color Filters/Effects
92%
The inclusion of 9 color filters is one of the standout features of this lighting kit. Users appreciate the ability to quickly change lighting effects and moods, making it perfect for a wide range of shooting styles, including portrait, product, and video work.
While the filters offer great flexibility, some users report that they feel somewhat flimsy and difficult to secure in place. A few also mention that the color options may not be as rich as those found in more expensive kits, though this is a minor issue given the kit's affordability.
Setup/Installation
89%
Setting up the lighting kit is quick and easy, which makes it great for users who are new to photography or video work. The tripod is easy to adjust, and the light panel connects without hassle. The USB-powered option also eliminates the need for complicated power sources or extension cords.
Some users mentioned that the tripod’s adjustment mechanism could be smoother, and the overall setup could be slightly more robust. While installation is quick, some find the assembly process a bit tedious due to the less-than-ideal fit of certain parts.
Customer Support
70%
30%
A small group of users who reached out to customer support mentioned prompt responses, especially when dealing with setup issues. Some users appreciated the helpful guides and resources provided by the manufacturer, which made troubleshooting easier.
Several users expressed dissatisfaction with the customer support experience, mentioning long response times and limited solutions for product issues. Some found the instructions unclear or insufficient, and a few were unable to get adequate assistance with their concerns.
USB Power Convenience
93%
The USB-powered design is one of the most praised features, offering great convenience for both indoor and on-the-go use. Users appreciate being able to power the kit from laptops, power banks, or USB adapters, making it highly portable and versatile for different environments.
Though the USB power option is convenient, some users point out that it doesn’t provide the same level of power output as AC-powered lights. This can affect performance in situations that demand maximum brightness, such as larger shoots or outdoor environments.
Light Output
78%
22%
The light output is adequate for most small to medium setups, especially for casual and entry-level shoots. Many users find it sufficient for video work, live streaming, or smaller product photoshoots where extremely high brightness isn't a primary concern.
For larger shoots or more professional applications, some users found the light output to be too weak. While it works well for compact spaces, the kit may not deliver the brightness required for bigger studio settings or outdoor locations, limiting its versatility.
Noise/Heat Emission
80%
20%
Many users found the lighting kit to be relatively quiet, even after extended use, making it suitable for recording environments. The heat emission is also minimal, ensuring the setup stays cool during longer shoots.
A few users mentioned that the light panel tends to get warm after prolonged use, though it generally remains manageable. This can be a minor issue during extended sessions but doesn't seem to be a deal-breaker for most users.

Suitable for:

The ALTSON Photography Lighting Kit AM-23 is ideal for content creators, including those making YouTube videos or live streaming. Its USB-powered design and adjustable brightness make it a versatile choice for creators who need a portable and affordable lighting solution. Beginners and intermediate photographers and videographers will appreciate the ease of setup and the inclusion of 9 color filters, which allow for customizable lighting effects. Additionally, small business owners can use this kit for product photography and social media content, especially when working in confined spaces or on the go. Its compact size and lightweight nature make it particularly appealing for users with limited space or who need to travel frequently.

Not suitable for:

However, this lighting kit may not be ideal for professional photographers or videographers who require higher brightness and more robust equipment for large-scale projects. Some users have noted that the maximum light output is lower than AC-powered alternatives, which could be a limitation in well-lit environments or larger studio spaces. The tripod, while adjustable, can be flimsy at higher extensions, potentially making it unsuitable for shoots requiring a stable and secure setup. Additionally, users seeking premium build quality or high-end lighting performance may find this product's materials and light intensity insufficient for demanding professional use.

Specifications

  • LED Type: Adjustable LED light panel for customizable brightness and lighting effects.
  • Power Source: USB-powered, allowing flexibility in power options from PCs or mobile power banks.
  • Brightness: Dimmable brightness range from 10% to 100%, providing full control over lighting intensity.
  • Color Filters: Includes 9 color filters to create different lighting moods and effects.
  • Tripod Height: Adjustable tripod height ranging from 27.19″ to 48.39″ for versatile positioning.
  • Diffuser: Comes with a diffuser to soften and distribute light evenly for a more natural effect.
  • Light Panel Size: The light panel measures 5.73×3.78 inches, providing a compact lighting solution.
  • CRI: Color Rendering Index (CRI) of 98+, ensuring accurate and vibrant color representation.
  • Light Output: Light output of 1000lm, offering sufficient brightness for small-scale shoots and video setups.
  • Color Temperature: Fixed color temperature of 5600K, delivering natural daylight-balanced lighting.
  • Weight: Weighs 4.45 lbs, making it lightweight and easy to transport for on-the-go use.
  • Dimensions: Product dimensions are 17″ x 4″ x 9″, ensuring portability and easy storage.
  • Portability: Compact and portable, ideal for tabletop photography or video shoots in various settings.
  • Usage: Suitable for use in both indoor environments and outdoor setups with a portable power bank.
  • Build Quality: The tripod is adjustable, though it may feel slightly flimsy at higher extensions.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with USB power sources like PCs and mobile power banks, ensuring broad usage.
  • Suitability: Best for beginner to intermediate content creators, including photographers and live streamers.
  • Warranty: Includes a standard warranty, providing peace of mind for users.
  • Maintenance: Low-maintenance with easy setup and simple operation for everyday use.

FAQ

The kit includes a compact LED light panel, a tripod stand with adjustable height, 9 color filters, and a diffuser. This makes it a versatile setup for different lighting effects, suitable for photography, video, and live streaming.

Setting up is easy. Simply extend the tripod to your preferred height (between 27.19″ and 48.39″), attach the LED light panel to the tripod, and connect the USB cable to a power source such as a PC or mobile power bank. Then, adjust the brightness and select the color filter or diffuser to achieve your desired lighting effect.

Yes, this lighting kit is USB-powered, which means you can use it with a portable power bank, making it ideal for outdoor or on-the-go shooting. However, it may not perform as brightly as AC-powered lights in extremely bright outdoor conditions.

The LED light panel provides 1000lm of brightness with a dimmable range from 10% to 100%. While it offers sufficient lighting for indoor use or small spaces, it may not be bright enough for larger areas or professional studio setups.

The 9 included color filters allow you to change the lighting mood for different scenes. Each filter provides a different hue, and you can simply clip them onto the light panel. They're useful for creating warmer tones or adding colored effects to your shoots.

The tripod is functional and adjustable, but some users have noted that it can feel slightly flimsy when extended to its maximum height. It's suitable for most setups, but for more heavy-duty use or higher stability, you might need to consider a more robust tripod.

This lighting kit is ideal for content creators, such as YouTubers, podcasters, or live streamers, who need a portable and adjustable lighting solution. It's also perfect for small business owners needing affordable product photography lighting or photographers looking for a lightweight setup.

The light's color temperature is fixed at 5600K, which is considered daylight-balanced, offering a neutral and natural look. While the included filters can adjust the light’s color hue, the color temperature itself cannot be changed.

While the ALTSON Photography Lighting Kit AM-23 is a great option for beginners or intermediate creators, it may not provide the brightness and durability needed for professional-grade photo shoots. It's more suited for personal or small-scale photography, live streaming, and video content.

To get the best results, position the light panel at eye level or slightly above for flattering lighting. Use the dimming feature to control the intensity based on the environment, and experiment with the color filters to create unique looks for different shoots. For added soft light, the included diffuser works well for diffusing harsh light.