How I use Godox for Off Camera Lighting at Weddings

When it comes to capturing the magic of weddings, lighting is everything. If you’re in the business of wedding photography, you already know that the right lighting can make or break your shots. And let’s be honest, wedding days are packed with precious moments that you just can’t afford to miss. That’s why I’m here to share my honest review of Godox lighting equipment, specifically the Godox V1 speedlight and the AD100 lights. Trust me, these lights are absolute workhorses that have transformed my wedding photography game.

Godox V1

First off, let’s talk about the Godox V1 speedlight. This little gem is a knockoff of the Profoto speedlight, but here’s the kicker – it’s less than half the price! Now, I know some of you might be skeptical about knockoffs, but let me tell you, the Godox V1 is worth every penny. The round head design is a game-changer, specifically crafted to spread light more evenly. I often use the round head dome to soften the light a bit because, let’s face it, no one wants their images to look harsh or artificially lit. We’re aiming for that beautiful, natural glow that makes people look their best without screaming, “Hey, I’ve got a speedlight on you!”

Another fantastic feature of the V1 is its rechargeable batteries. Gone are the days of fumbling around with AA batteries in the middle of a shoot. These rechargeable batteries are lifesavers, and believe me, they last a good while. However, having a few extra batteries on hand is always a smart move, especially during those long wedding days when you’re shooting from dawn till dusk.

Now, let’s dive into the Godox AD100 lights. These little powerhouses are roughly the size of a soda can, making them incredibly easy to travel with. They use the same battery as the V1, which is super convenient – no more juggling different types of batteries. I use two AD100s as my off-camera lights, and they’re nothing short of amazing. Despite their compact size, these lights pack a punch. Honestly, they are just as powerful as the AD200, and two of them can easily light up an entire room.

Versatility

What’s even better is the versatility of these lights. Godox has created a range of accessories for their round head lights, including grids and various modifiers, all of which are interchangeable. This means you can mix and match to your heart’s content, tailoring your lighting setup to suit any situation. Personally, I love using the round head diffuser with my AD100s. It works similarly to a softbox, spreading the light out and softening it beautifully.

Size

Another thing I appreciate about the AD100s is how light they are. When you’re on the go or working without an assistant, mobility is key. I can easily mount these lights on travel stands, and because they’re so lightweight, moving them around is a breeze. When I’m in a time crunch or don’t have an assistant, I’ll often use an AD100 off-camera with the round head modifier for portraits. It adds just the right amount of light without being overpowering.

For most weddings, my go-to setup includes one V1 on camera and two AD100s off camera. This trifecta of lights ensures that I’m always ready to capture those fleeting moments, whether it’s the bride’s radiant smile, the groom’s teary eyes, or the couple’s first dance under twinkling lights. The V1 on camera gives me the flexibility to move around and catch candid shots, while the AD100s provide consistent, beautiful lighting for portraits and group photos.

In conclusion, if you’re on the fence about investing in Godox lighting equipment for wedding photography, I say go for it. The Godox V1 and AD100 lights have not only made my life easier but have also elevated the quality of my work. They’re reliable, versatile, and budget-friendly – what more could you ask for? So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, give these lights a try.

Your future self – and your clients – will thank you.