Why I got the Godox AD100Pro over the Godox V860III

I have for some time been able to manage with only one flash (!) – the Godox V860III. My copy is made for sitting on a Nikon, but because I trigger it off camera with a Godox XPro, I am able to use the same flashlight across my Nikon, Canon and Fuji cameras. I have to invest in a trigger per camera, but the flash can be the same. This is the first reason why I wanted to stay with Godox – their eco system works really well and the protocol is shared across a lot of their newer products.

Godox AD100PRO
My Godox V860III has been my only flash – supported by reflectors and mirrors.

I wanted to get a second flash to give me more options especially when doing product shoots. I did consider getting an additional Godox V860III, but I really do miss a good modelling light, so I am able to see where the light falls before hitting the shutter. The V860III does have a modelling light, but it sits on the base of the flashlight and hence does not follow the turning of the head. And when the flashlight sits in say a softbox, the modelling light is no good at all.

Godox AD100PRO
The modelling light on the Godox V860III sits on the base of the flashlight and does not follow the direction of the head of the flash light.

The Godox AD100Pro solves this problem by having the modelling light sitting at the edge of the flash light itself, and hence solves the issue I have with the V860III. It is not a very strong light at only 1.8W, and when sitting in a softbox this is not very useful. But when the flash is used “naked” it is really a helpful feature and for my flower photography I really enjoy the modelling light.

Godox AD100PRO
The Godox AD100PRO has a small 1.8W modelling light sitting at the edge of the flash light itself.

Further, the AD100Pro is not a very big flash. It is marginally larger than a can of coca-cola and as I have only a small studio, having a compact flash is important to me. The flash is not that powerful (only marginally stronger than the V860III) and if you need more power, I suggest you take a closer look at the AD200Pro or AD400Pro to mention a few.

Godox AD100PRO
The Godox AD100PRO is a relatively small flash – here compared to the size of a pen.

I was able to get the AK-R1 accessory kit that gives a range of modifiers, including barn doors, snoot and gels. The light modifiers snap onto the flash via magnets, and it is so easy and very fast to mount and swap light modifiers. I really enjoy this addition to my flash, although the size of the light source for my usage (typically product shoots) is small and hence gives hard light. But for a focused beam of light to enhance the brand name or a logo on a product, it is really useful.

Godox AD100PRO and the AK-R1 accessory kit
Godox AD100PRO and the AK-R1 accessory kit

Finally, the Lithium battery that comes with the AD100Pro is – even when I shoot at full power – able to recycle in a matter of seconds. And the battery easily supports one of my shooting sessions (1-2 hours typically) without a need for charging.

Summary

The Godox AD100Pro works really well for me, but your preferences and use case may vary from mine. If you need lots of power, I recommend that you look to some of the larger models (AD200 and AD400), especially if you want some modelling light that is useful also in daylight when sitting in a softbox.

Video link

 

Review: In America by Robert Frank

Swiss-born photographer Robert Frank on the cover page of his book “In America” is quoted for saying: “Across the USA, I have photographed with these ideas in mind: to Portray Americans as they live at present. Their everyday and their Sunday, their realism and dream. The look of their cities, towns and highways”.

Robert Frank In America
Robert Frank In America

Many big words – both praising and criticising Franks work – have been written about this book, but I stick to Frank’s simple description of his work done during his travel across America. Then I let others decide if this truly is a landmark in photographic history or a touchstone of American identity.

Robert Frank's way across America.
Robert Frank’s way across America.

What strikes me as a photographer looking through the black and white images of this book is Frank’s extraordinary visual talent. And for me this is a source of inspiration that I can visit again and again. Seeing Franks work really makes me want to be a better photographer – not in the same way as the playfulness of Saul Leiter or the clean compositions of Henri-Cartier Bresson, no, it is a visual talent where the compositions are very natural and – for the lack of a better word – non-composed.

Example images from In America.
Example images from In America.

Some of his images I can study again and again and still find new nuances and details; new inspiration and the work of a natural talent. It is difficult for me to asses if you will feel the same way, but if you are looking for inspiration from one of the best photographers of all time, this book may be just what you need.

Further reading

Review: Henri Cartier-Bresson Here and Now, by Clément Chéroux

Review: The Unseen Saul Leiter by Margit Erb & Michael Parillo