Continuous Output Lighting

Match the light output (lumens or lux) and color accuracy (CRI/TLCI) to your needs: higher output for larger scenes or higher frame rates, and CRI/TLCI 90+ for accurate skin tones; consider beam angle, size, and mounting options for your setup

LEDs are energy-efficient, run cool, and often offer variable color temperature and dimming; fluorescents are lower-heat but bulkier and typically fixed color; tungsten produces warm light with high color rendering but consumes more power and emits heat

Color temperature (measured in Kelvins) affects scene mood and matching: choose fixed 3200K for tungsten or 5600K for daylight, or pick bi-color/variable lights when you need flexibility to match existing lighting or vary warmth on set

Look for battery-powered options, compact form factors, light weight, and on-board controls or wireless control (Bluetooth/DMX) for remote adjustments; also check battery runtime at typical output levels

CRI and TLCI measure color rendering; higher values (typically 90+) indicate more accurate and natural colors on camera and in post-production, reducing time spent color-correcting

Ensure the fixture has industry-standard mounts (e.g., 1/4"-20, Bowens, or yoke), compatibility with softboxes, grids, and barn doors, and sufficient cooling to support modifiers without overheating

Keep fixtures clean and dust-free, avoid blocking ventilation, use recommended power supplies and batteries, store in a dry place, and periodically check cables and mounts for wear to ensure longevity and safe operation