Why Portrait Photographers Should Be Watching Westcott’s FJ100 Launch

Portrait photographers have always relied on additional sources of light. From studio lights to a small flash, each little device can help enhance the mood and look of the scene. Westcott, an Ohio-based lighting manufacturer for those who haven’t heard of them, has been one of the few to bring new lighting technology to portrait photographers. As part of their growing portfolio, they have launched a new strobe and speedlight, which image-makers will adore.

The FJ100 Touchscreen AC/DC Strobe and FJ100 Touchscreen Speedlight are the latest additions to the award-winning FJ Wireless System. The company has already introduced models such as the FJ400 II, FJ800, and FJ250. For the unversed, this lighting system is designed for photographers who shoot outdoors, in the sun, or “fast-paced events, or detailed studio work.” With the FJ100 duo, portrait photographs will now get 100W of light with a good battery life, touchscreen controls, and portable designs.

Portrait photographers shoot in studios, but some also dare to venture out in the city. Given how photographers are always on the move, the FJ100 Strobe and Speedlight are designed to be lightweight and compact. As seen above, the strobe is as small as a soda can, allowing photographers to carry it across continents. The flash comes with a round Omega flash tube, which delivers smooth light. In fact, it works as both an on-camera speedlight with a wireless transmitter, and as an off-camera wireless client. The FJ100 flash comes for Multi-Brand and Sony versions of cameras.

The duo delivers 100Ws flash performance, along with portable designs that help them fit into a camera bag or backpack. The speedlight and the flash come with automatic and manual 24-200mm flash zoom and native compatibility with Westcott Twist Lock light modifiers.

The FJ100 Strobe has a new feature called the exclusive Creative Mask mode, which enables portrait photographers to “create up to six unique lighting variations” without any movement of the light or the subject. Thus, this makes it easy for one to give their clients some variety, while cutting down the shoot time.

The devices also come with various modes, such as TTL, High-Speed Sync up to 1/8000s, Freeze Sync, and Stroboscopic Mode. Both models also have a fast recycling speed that goes from 0.01–1.6 seconds, has 60fps of continuous shooting, and consistence of color up to a 9-stop power range. There are built-in LED modeling lights to make assignment easy.

The company notes that the FJ100 devices can easily integrate with other Westcott strobes, speedlights, triggers, and receivers. The FJ100 offers 2.4 GHz wireless communication support for up to 16 groups across 31 channels from distances up to 328 feet (100 m). Meanwhile, color-coded LED groups make multiple light setups easy and quick to use.

With a USB-C rechargeable FJ Mini AC/DC Battery, the FJ100 Strobe offers 700+ flashes per charge, while the speedlight comes with 575+ flashes per charge. The batteries are interchangeable and work with both lights, which means you save up on how many batteries you carry.

The lights come with touchscreens, making it easy for portrait photographers to navigate the settings even in challenging situations. The interface comes with accessibility to switch between flash power, zoom, wireless settings, and creative mode.

Those interested in buying the FJ100 series can head to Westcott’s website. With many competitors out, Westcott is trying to offer a blend of performance and portability, ensuring portrait image-makers excel in their field.