Paul C. Buff, Inc. Technical Forum

Anyone tried to use LED bulbs for modeling lights? I have tried CFs but they do not work, I assume the AC is modified in the system.

Some of the new LED bulbs are dimmable, and in CA they are subsidized- you can get a 60 watt equal bulb for a few bucks. They are power misers, run cool and burn bright. The color temps are not ideal, but I expect that will change.

I am interested for two applications; one is remote use- running off batteries, where the savings in power would be huge. The second is to use my Alien Bees for simple video applications, adding light without having to carry or buy more gear.

There seems to not be any power or operational issues from those who have tried this in the past. However, we have not tested the long term effects heat from a flash tube can have on the LED bulb.

1000bulbs.com has several styles. But many are too big in diameter to fit properly.