In recent years, photographers have increasingly embraced portable LED lights for their versatility, efficiency, and creative control.
They are no longer the low powered, bulky, expensive lights that were just basically big sheets of LED 'bulbs' that we saw 10 years ago.
And, unlike traditional strobes, LEDs provide continuous lighting, allowing photographers to see the exact effect of their light in real time, which also makes it very easy to blend available ambient light.
This is particularly beneficial for modern photographers, many of whom are now hybrid creators that combine still photography with video production.
This shift toward hybrid photography has been driven by the rise of social media, where dynamic content like short videos and behind-the-scenes reels complement still imagery.
LED lights excel in this environment, offering flicker-free illumination with high colour accuracy that seamlessly transition between photography and video setups – meaning you don't need to bring separate strobe and continuous lighting units.
Many units have the ability to run on both mains or battery-power, can provide adjustable colour temperatures (bi-colour) as well as the option to add light modifiers. Some of the latest LED lights even allow full-colour spectrum lighting without the need for gels.
The Harlowe brand (previously known as Hobolite) is a standout brand that has been around since the year 2000. Their mission is to 'create lighting that is as functional as it is beautiful.'
And, after test driving a number of their units, I feel their mission statement to be true. It also came as no surprise when I stepped into a stylish Leica store recently and spotted a few retro-styled units illuminating a vintage diorama elegantly displayed on a shelf.
Harlowe lights come in a wide range from 5W to 300W, yet all embody excellence in their design, functionality, reliability – all in a very stylish package that harks back to 'old Hollywood'.
Here’s a closer look at four standout products from their line-up: the Iris 5W, Avant Max 80W, Avant 100W, and the awesome Pro 300W.
Harlowe Iris 5W (from $199)
This light is the epitome of portable lighting that can fit in your pocket. Buildwise, its very solid and weighs just a fraction of the larger models, the Iris is an ideal companion for macro photography, tabletop shoots, or even attaching to the top of your camera for run-and-gun interviews.
Its sleek design includes adjustable brightness and colour temperature, ensuring precise control over lighting conditions. Considerably more powerful than a smartphone torch, it also has the ability to add gels and modifiers.
Harlowe Avant Max 80W (from $950)
This light bridges the gap between portability and professional-grade performance. With a tonne of output, this compact light is perfect for small studios, portrait sessions, and dynamic outdoor setups.
Resembling a Hasselblad, this design replaces the film holder with a swappable battery on the back and the lens with interchangeable light modifiers on the front. A handle can also be attached to the base, doubling as a light stand mount.
Harlowe Avant 100W (from $1,995)
This light provides exceptional brightness and precision, making it perfect for detailed portraits, product photography, and video shoots.
Image: Harlowe
Its durable build and high-quality components ensure longevity, while its compatibility with a range of modifiers allows users to shape and soften light as needed. You can run the unit from mains or a 95WH V-Mount DC battery.
Harlowe Pro 300W (from $2,869)
At the pinnacle of the lineup is the Pro 300W, a powerhouse built for large-scale productions. With an insanely bright, burn-your-eyeballs-out 300-watt bi-colour output, this professional-grade light is ideal for cinematic projects, commercial photography, and high-demand studio environments.
The Pro 300W features advanced technologies including being able to control the light via an app, or you can actually remove the control panel on the back and modify the light wirelessly! It also has a range special effects – such as being able to emulate a TV flickering, flame or even lightning.
Power-wise, It runs on V-Mount Batteries or on mains power, and features an 'intelligent active' cooling fan which minimises noise which is useful for interviews and keeping the film set’s ambient noise down.
Not only does it have the ability to mount Harlowe brand modifiers, it features a Bowens mount, which means you have the largest range of reasonably priced modifiers on the market.
While it is portable, it's also a bit of a beast to carry and comes in a beautiful carry case.
Accompanying the light is a range of accessories such as light stands, clamps, power supply and modifiers which match the lights future-retro design.
Also, when you're finished shooting, this would make an incredible lamp for your home!
Future-retro goodness
Harlowe has truly carved out a niche with their line of solid, high-quality lights that not only perform flawlessly but also exude a sense of refined style. I can’t think of another brand that marries functionality with aesthetics quite like this.
Each light is meticulously crafted with a brushed metal housing, faux leather panelling, and perfectly textured knobs. They are available in a range of kit sizes, from the standard option to the more comprehensive 'Creator' kit, which includes gels, modifiers, handles, clamps, and power adapters.
Beyond their impeccable build, Harlowe lights are accompanied by a comprehensive range of modifiers, all packaged in beautifully designed carry kits. While their premium quality comes with a higher price tag, the appeal is undeniable.
These are not just tools for lighting; they’re statement pieces. In fact, I’ve never considered leaving my LED lights on display – whether on a mantlepiece or perched on a light stand in the corner of my room – until I discovered Harlowe.
Their lights don’t just illuminate; they elevate the ambiance of any space they’re in.