Ask An Expert: RGB vs LED Lighting

What is the significance of RGB lights and what do they offer that a conventional LED light can’t?

RGB lights are proving to be a bit of a game changer. They’re ideal for photographers who want to get maximum creative potential without having dozens of different items of kit for different purposes. Many RGB lights, like the Kenro Smart Lite series, will also offer a standard studio light function so that the light can be used for normal portraiture and product photography, as well as to paint with light and create some really interesting effects. Having that 5600-3200K stepless colour temperature adjustment gives you a 2-in-1 lighting solution. A good RGB light will have a full spectrum of over 360 colours, giving the user far more flexibility and precision than using gels and filters. On the whole, it’s quick and easy to change the colour setting on an RGB light, rather than having the fiddly task of swapping filters in and out, carrying a huge catalogue of different colours and layering up to create the right one. And if you get a product like the Kenro Smart Lite RGB Compact Tube Lights, you can also get a range of special effects built in, ready for any video commissions or creative projects. These built-in effects make it easy to imitate lighting scenarios that can otherwise be a real headache and involve several different pieces of kit – for example, lightning storm, emergency services vehicle and flame. You can also use them in photography for precision light painting – create a variety of background colours by directing the RGB light onto a plain white wall or canvas, add interesting hues and highlights to product photography, set the mood for really striking portraits, or create incredible effects with movement and long exposure. If you’re looking for a single piece of kit that serves multiple functions and can be used in everyday as well as more creative shoots, an RGB light is the way forward.