If you are a portrait photographer, we have some good news. Harlowe, which was previously called Hobolite, has introduced new lights and modifiers for your varying needs. The three new launches include the Blade series’ tube lights, a softbox, and a new optical light lens. Harlowe says it’s for professionals who want lighting tools that can meet their demanding assignments. Here’s a look at what the new lights have to offer.
Blade Series Tube Lights
The Blade series light offers two options: Blade 5 and 10. The Blade 5 features a 5-watt RGB & Bi-Color tube light, while the Blade 10 doubles the power. The color lights are portable and include built-in magnets for attachments and a 1/4-20 mount for tripods and stands. Blade 5 uses a 1400mAh rechargeable battery, while Blade 10 uses an 1800mAh. The lights also feature Bluetooth connectivity and come with an app where users can remotely adjust brightness, color temperature, and RGB settings. The Blade 5 is priced at $199, while the Blade 10 is for $299.
Harlowe Quick Release Softbox
Portrait photographers know the importance of a softbox. They not only help to produce soft, dreamy portraits but can also help in other areas, such as still life or commercial photography. This 24-inch circular softbox features a quick-release technology, which allows it to set up and break down in seconds. It also incorporates a MAX series adapter and a Bowens mount adapter, which allows users to have a variety of lighting setups. Harlowe says the Softbox is lightweight and portrait, which makes it easy to use even when you are shooting on-location shoots. The device is available for $299.
GOBO Optical Light Lens
Harlowe has also considered those who want to create unique images. The Quick Release Softbox allows one to project patterns and shapes onto the surface of one’s choice. It has two versions, Pro and MAX, each featuring a 50mm main lens. The light also includes an adjustable metal insert with customizable leaves for control. The Pro version is compatible with the Pro series and other Bowens-compatible systems, while the MAX version is for the MAX series light. The former has 14 effect plates and a focusing lens, while the latter offers 19 effect plates, including metal, colorful, and glass options. The Pro version of Harlowe Light is $799, while the Max is priced at $699.
Should You Buy Them?
In the past, we have used multiple lights, and they each had some or the other hits and misses. Harlowe is no different. In our review of Hobolite Avant Max, we found it quite useful when shooting with film. However, we also stated that the company makes aesthetically pleasing lights while not delivering on performance. We also saw something similar with Hobolite Mini Max, which was quite interesting but did not have enough power like a Profoto. “I needed to raise the ISO on the camera, which gives me a softer and noisier image. This translates to less of a visual impact,” we noted in the Mini Max review.
So, now the answer is entirely up to you. Would you prefer a light that appears fancy but has an average output, or would you rather buy a workhorse that can work in various situations? Please bear in mind that none of those products have been given to us for review yet, so we can’t comment on their performance. However, seeing how Hobolite performed in the past, there is a chance it is not something you need.