Inexpensive Lights

[JustinGD]

I have spent some time looking at affordable lights online, there are a LOT of options. Who has discovered any hidden gems in the world of cheap production lights?

I realize I'm not going to buy a $300 light and rent it for $100/day, but can anyone suggest some surprisingly high quality Florescent, LED or Fresnel lights?

[JustinGD]

Look at these options that I found on Amazon of all places. Would these work for say lighting a green screen?
http://www.amazon.com/Ardinbir-Studi...d_sim_sbs_p_40
or
http://www.amazon.com/ePhoto-Photo-S...pd_sim_sbs_p_8
And even LED panels, this gets good reviews from those who bought it, could it possibly be true?
http://www.amazon.com/ePhoto-Dimmabl...pr_product_top

[Markus Olsson]

Hi Justin.
http://www.coollights.biz/softlight-...s-c-25_31.html
Very good for what you pay.

[JustinGD]

I hear a lot of great things about Cool Lights. Only problem is that they are out of stock for 2 months! These $200 to $300 options probably don't hold up as well, but in a permanent studio setting, wouldn't they throw the same light?

How do Cool Lights compare with Kino Flo? Is the extra cost justified? or is it just the name?

[Brian Kaz]

I have two Cool light Fluorescents (CL-455 dimmable & CL-255) and have treated them like crap for 4 years and they're still going strong.

[Chris McKechnie]

I use this kit A LOT. High CRI. Flicker free. Love them. I also added a couple of grids to control the light spill, but it's beautiful soft light.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Linco-Flora-...item2ebdd6d8e7

[David W. Jones]

My thoughts... Look on eBay and wait for deals on quality used lights.
For example, I just picked up a couple of Mole 407 1K Fresnels for $150 a pop, and Mini-Moles for $100 each.
I also bought used Beefy Baby triple risers for $97 each. Deals are out there if you pay attention.

Dave