Paul C. Buff, Inc. Technical Forum

This is probably a dumb question, but could this be used for video purposes?

Depends what you want to do with it I guess. The higher output that comes from the flash tube is not a continuous light source. There is a modeling lamp that is a continuous light source but I'm not sure how much that gets you for video. I also remember seeing a BTS vid of someone making a video by shooting 10 fps stills with strobes (I don't think they were Bees) and then stitching it into video but that is a somewhat different animal.

Thanks for your reply. I was thinking about just using the modeling mode to video an interview. It would be a person sitting in a chair. I've never used these lights and a friend offered to loan them to me.

Sorry... didn't mean to state the obvious in my reply but I didn't want to assume anything either. I feel like I've seen this topic discussed before but I couldn't find it on the board. One other thing to consider is the fan in the strobe will probably run a lot so that could make noise issues for you. Maybe someone else remembers. Good luck and let us know how it goes if you do try it.

I think you'd want to check the limit on the modeling bulb wattage on the AB--I doubt it is very high, and if you plan to light with a softbox, well, it might not be enough for video at all.

If you just use the cone reflector, it will be more light on your subject, but harsh compared to the typical lighting used for such things. But if if that is the look you want, you can just get some clamp on work lights at home depot for 5-7 bucks, put brighter CFLs in them.

But, as mentioned earlier, someone here may have posted about this, or tried it already. Maybe they will chime in.

I had to do an ad-hoc interview and needed a fill light. All I had on hand was an Einstein 640 and a silver HOBD. The modeling light worked in terms of providing enough light, but the issue was that it was loud (fans). If you have directional mics and will be spending time in post for audio correction, then you can do it in a pinch. But you're better off just getting continuous light, even cheap stuff like garage work lights or running several CFLs.

The Bees, and all of PCB lighting, is really not designed for continuous video work. The model lamps are relatively dim compared to purpose built lights. Also, the fan may be a concern, depending on your audio equipment. However, if you are using an HDSLR, you may be able to increase ISO/Gain to increase the exposure, and still not notice any ill effects from noise, as well, you may have lenses that have faster apertures than other video cameras.