If you’re a photographer who loves a versatile, compact light for just about any situation life throws at you, listen up. The brand new Profoto D30 is a fantastic new mains-powered monolight. The D30 is adaptable to any scenario, both in and out of the studio. A bi-color LED modeling light adds to the versatility. It gives you the creative freedom to create any light you can imagine. In this article, we’ll be diving in and discussing some of the best new features of the new Profoto D30.
Key Features
- Mains-powered monolight
- 11 stops flash range
- Lightning-fast recycle time (0.01-0.7s)
- Compact and lightweight
- Easy to setup
- Bi-color (2800K-7000K) modeling light
- AirX Connectivity (control via camera or from Profoto apps)
- Three different flash modes
What’s New About the Profoto D30?
The compact and lightweight Profoto D30 shines brightest when it comes to versatility for various photographic situations. Its mains-powered operation allows for uninterrupted shooting in any scenario where quality light is needed. The fast recycle time of 0.01-0.7s lends itself perfectly for burst shooting, and a bi-color LED modeling light is ideal for accenting your scene or working directly as the main light. 500 Ws of power over 11 f-stops provide light bright enough for any scene. Finally, you can choose between three distinct flash modes for optimal results. Let’s jump in and look at some of the new features in greater detail.
Compact and Lightweight
One of this new light’s best features is its compact and lightweight nature, which makes it easily packable wherever you need light. The packed weight, including the stand adapter, is 2.1 kg (4.7lbs), or 1.85 kg (4.1lbs) without. The overall dimensions of the light are 11.0cm x 25.5 cm x 16 cm (4.33 in x 10 in x 6.3 in). This makes the Profoto D30 one of the lightest and most compact compared with other lights with similar power. However, don’t be fooled by the lightweight nature; the design is sturdy and robust, giving you maximum durability.
Three Flash Modes
The Profoto D30 comes equipped with three different flash modes. ECO is the mode of choice for color consistency and increased equipment lifetime. Boost mode gives extra power, offering a brighter light when illuminating a very dark scene. Finally, freeze gives the shortest flash duration and eliminates motion blur. Each mode provides excellent quality lighting for different situations, and these three modes add to the versatility of this new light.
Quick Recycle Time
Some photographic opportunities happen faster than others. For those who need to capture images in rapid succession, this light has incredible recycle times to ensure your subject is always adequately lit. At 230V / 50Hz, the light can recycle between 0.01-0.7s, while the maximum recycle time slightly increases to 0.9s at 100V / 50Hz. These quick recycling times will help you capture the most decisive moment of your session or allow you to freeze motion on a fast-moving subject.
Bi-Color LED Modeling Light
When you need a continuous light source, the Profoto D30 has a bi-color LED modeling light with an adjustable color temperature (2800K-7000K). If you need a spot of light, use the Profoto D30 as a continuous light source with this bi-color LED modeling light. With an adjustable color temperature from warm to cool, it’s also straightforward to match surrounding light to help your images feel seamless. Finally, video-quality color rendering allows you to achieve precisely the right color for your imagery, furthermore increasing the incredible versatility of the Profoto D30.
Who Should Buy the Profoto D30?
The Profoto D30 is an excellent light for any creator who values versatility in a high-quality, lightweight light. That being said, these features make this light a no-brainer for those looking to invest in their first pro-level lighting system from a brand known for creating excellent lighting systems. With smaller, lighter equipment becoming increasingly common, there has never been a better time to add a compact lighting system to your bag. This light is compatible with numerous accessories and light shapers, allowing those new to lighting to experiment and purchase accessories as needed. If you’re looking for the ultimate mains-powered monolight that can honestly do it all, look no further than the Profoto D30!
Comparable Lights from Profoto
For those looking for an even more compact option, the Profoto A2 is an excellent light smaller than the D30, though not as strong. The A2 is a rechargeable 100W light weighing only 773g (1.7lbs), including the battery and stand adapter. It can flash 400 times at maximum brightness on one charge at a color temperature of 5800K. While not quite as versatile as the D30, the compact nature of this flash makes it an excellent choice.
Conclusion
With so many ways to use the D30, it truly is unique for anyone who values high-quality light. Whether packing your light to different locations or using it in the studio, a more compact size helps to save you space without compromising on light intensity or quality. A bi-color LED modeling light gives this light even more versatility to use in many different situations. The quick recycle time is perfect for capturing anything at high speeds. And finally, three different flash modes ensure you’ll always have the ideal flash for every scenario.
