How I built an ultra-compact off-camera flash kit that fits in the trunk of my car
This is why three speedlights aren’t enough for outdoor photography –and what to use instead
For the self-taught photographer, progressing from simple setups to more advanced lighting often begins with the 'strobist' journey. Early setups typically involve three small speedlights, lightweight stands, white shoot-through umbrellas, and possibly a snoot. While compact and accessible, such configurations struggle with outdoor bright conditions and sync speed limitations.
As photographers advance, they explore higher-power lights and modifiers like high-speed sync and neutral density filters, pushing power requirements into 400-600Ws range. This necessitates heavier light stands and compact modifiers for on-location work.
The author's portable setup consists of a three-light system: key light, fill/separation, and background. The compact kit initially used three Godox V850II speedlights but has since transitioned to two Godox AD100 Pro, offering more power in a smaller package. The key modifier is the SMDV Flip 32, an octabox that opens quickly, features a built-in stand adapter, and allows for angle adjustments.
It locks onto the AD100 via a specific ring, adaptable to V850-style speedlights. Additional modifiers like a Godox snoot and a SmallRig FS30120 strip softbox can be mounted using Godox S2 brackets for compatibility with Bowens mounts. The SmallRig system is especially praised for its quick setup and release mechanism.
The main system uses the Godox AD600BM (also known as Pixapro Citi600), which takes Bowens modifiers directly and is more compact than the Elinchrom ELX 500s used in the studio. These lights are shared with the compact kit, along with the LA-90 Octa, featuring a fast-assembly system. Stands for both setups are Neewer air-cushioned, while the X3 serves as a compact, touchscreen unit to manage the entire setup.
However, transport remains a challenge, as the main system currently uses two Neewer bags—one for stands and umbrellas, and another for lights and softboxes—lacking wheels for efficient trunk storage. A future plan involves consolidating everything into a Think Tank Production Manager 40 rolling case, pending confirmation of fit with the car trunk.
For contemporary configurations, the AD100Pro II for the compact setup and the AD600Pro II for the main system could suffice, or opting for the AD400Pro II for a smaller, lower-power option.
Written by urgent.news from Digital Camera World's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
