Stationary Light Painting. Flashlights and spotlights are often used in light painting, but their narrow beams require considerable "painting" skill to overlap each stroke of the light "brush", in order to make the light even. The Z96 has nine rows of 16 LED lights (96 total), producing more of a flood light pattern (about 65º beam angle). This broader light source allows me to place the light on a light stand, tripod, or more often than not, just on the ground, leaning against a rock —pointing towards a landscape feature, and leaving it unattended.
The Z96's broad angle of coverage makes a great unattended fill light, to soften or lighten the harsh shadows created by a stronger main light. Often, that main light will be a handheld, moving spotlight. Sometimes, I'll use two Z96's —one set on full power, and the other dimmed as the fill light, similar the the top photo in Zion National Park. In other cases, I'll use it as the only artificial light source, like I did in the Temple of the Moon photo, below.
The advantage of unattended lighting (or "stationary light sculpting", as I like to call it), is that you can concentrate on making other adjustments to your image, such as composition. Stationary lighting also allows one to do time lapse photography, where every frame must have the same lighting, or the video will flickr. It is also useful in panoramic night scenes where all the images must have the same foreground lighting, if they are to match when stitched together.
![]() |
The Z96 LED Video Light Panel is very compact. It come with a screw-on adjustable mounting head/bracket and two magnetic snap-on filters (dollar bill not included) |
Compact and Adjustable: The Z96 is extremely compact (5 x 1.8 x 3") and adaptable. It comes with an adjustable mounting head or bracket that allows slide-on mounting to a DSLR hot shot or to any 1/4" treaded device, i.e. a tripod or a light stand. It also comes with two magnetic snap-on filters —one is for diffusion and the other is an orange filler that converts the 5600º Kelvin LED lights to 3200º K. I usually leave both the diffusion and the orange filter on the Z96 for my NightScape photos. That's because I typically shoot my images with a 4000º K White Balance. This gives my skies a slightly bluish hue and the 3200º K light sources gives my foreground subjects and slightly warmer hue that contrasts nicely with the night sky.
![]() |
Back and front view of the Z96 (pocket tripod no included) |
Variable Light Intensity: The Z96 has a maximum light output of 800 Lux (at 1 meter). The dimmer switch on the back of the Z96 allows 0-100% light intensity. This is probably my most used feature. Except for long-distance landscape features, I rarely us this light panel at full power. For features that are less than 100 feet away, the light intensity is usually dimmed to less that one-half or one-quarter strength. That's because it doesn't take much light when you are using high ISO's in the range of 3200 to 6400 to photograph stars as points of light.
Power and light duration: Because LEDs are low consumers of electrical power, the manufacturer claims the Z96 can run for about 70 minutes at full power, using five AA batteries as a power source.
Low Power Warning: If you have the Z96 dimmer switch set to full power and the batteries do not have enough strength to power the lights at that intensity, the lights will begin to flicker (go on and off), giving you notice that you must dim to a lower intensity. This annoying feature is actually a benefit to maintaining consistent exposure control . It lets you know that you don't have enough power to maintain that light intensity and camera exposure (very important in video recording and time lapse photography). If you are doing a time lapse, you'll want to read below and make sure you have the proper power source in order to maintain a consistent light intensity and avoid the flicker warning.
Alkaline vs. NiMH: In my tests, fresh AA alkalines typically last about 20 minutes, at full power, before the Z96 started to flicker. If one sets dimmer at 1/2 power, the lights will run for about 45 minutes before the unit starts to flickr. Set the dimmer at 1/4 power and it will run for about 1.5-hours before you get a flicker.
![]() |
7.4 volt NP-F770 Lithium-ion battery |
To avoid the flicker or constant re-adjustment of the light intensity via the dimmer switch, I use rechargeable NiMH batteries. I have found that NiMH batteries give me a more consistent power source than alkaline batteries (I use the 2300 mAh Energizer rechargeable). Alkaline batteries start out strong, but slowly weaken over a two hour period. The NiMH AA's start strong and remain at peak output for about 45 minutes (three times longer than alkaline), then quickly weaken near the end of their power. If you set the dimmer stitch at 1/2 power, you can get about 2-hours of consistent (flicker-less) light using NiMH batteries.
Lithium-ion Batteries: A Sony style 7.4 volt NP-F770 lithium-ion battery can be snapped on to the outside of battery compartment door and give you full (non-flicker) power for about 3-hours. At 1/2 power, the light will remain consistent for about six hours. This is a great option for long time lapse sequences.
Various LED Light Panel Brands: Litepanels was the original company that started making LED panel lights back in 2001. Their original 96 LED design sold for $400. Today's 96 LED Litepanels Micropro design sells for $350.
F&V Lighting is another quality manufacturer of panel lights. F&V makes the Z96 LED Video Light. Over the last 10 years, F&V has invested heavily in applying the advancements of LED technology to photographic and video applications, i.e. LUX/mAh efficiency and color rendering (CRI). I bought my first F&V Z96 Video Light through Calumet (labeled as their model CF9020) for $199. It has been a very reliable unit. Until recently, F&V has continued to sell the original Z96 ($169). This unit is currently being replaced by the Z96 UltraColor ($199), which has a higher color consistency (a CRI of 95).
![]() |
BUYER BEWARE! These two units look exactly the same, except for the Calumet branding label on the left unit. The Calumet was made by F&V, but the unit on the right is a Chinese counterfeit! |
![]() |
Both have the same "HDV-Z96" model number in the top left and the "Made by F&V" molded into the bottom right of the units. |
BEST Chinese Knock-off for less than $100: There are many Chinese panel light knock-offs at much lower prices, some even at the $20-$40 price range, and you might be tempted to buy one of these units. I even found a high-quality knock-off for about $95 that looks exactly like the F&V Z96 (I have two of these, in addition to my Calumet branded original). It even says that it is made by F&V, but the unit does NOT have the low power warning circuitry (light flickering), nor is its light color temperature the same as the authentic product. I contacted F&V and found out that their Z96 is one of the most counterfeited lighting products on the market because of its popularity and length of time that it has been in the photo marketplace!
NOTE: You might think that not having the power warning circuitry (light flickering) may be a plus, because the annoying flicker (on and off) would ruin a time lapse sequence, and you'd be right. But, having your foreground feature become darker (as the light intensity diminishes) would be just as annoying in your final time lapse video. However, if you never plan to do time lapse (or star trails), nor do you need exact color rendering (not as important for night landscape as it is for portrait and wedding photography), then this high-quality $95 counterfeit might still be a good fit for you. (The two I have do an excellent job for night photography, albeit their light color rendition just a touch more pink or magenta than the original unit.)
NOTE: You might think that not having the power warning circuitry (light flickering) may be a plus, because the annoying flicker (on and off) would ruin a time lapse sequence, and you'd be right. But, having your foreground feature become darker (as the light intensity diminishes) would be just as annoying in your final time lapse video. However, if you never plan to do time lapse (or star trails), nor do you need exact color rendering (not as important for night landscape as it is for portrait and wedding photography), then this high-quality $95 counterfeit might still be a good fit for you. (The two I have do an excellent job for night photography, albeit their light color rendition just a touch more pink or magenta than the original unit.)
See what you mean, More from China/Hong Kong/ Singapore than the real ones on eBay. I was very impressed with the job they did at the Barn.
ReplyDeleteVery useful information shared by you. Thanks for sharing.
DeleteLED Light Manufacturers-www.orkus.in
Led Light We got a couple of these to add to our band's stage lights. We use them more like accent lights. They're small and really affordable. We like them.
ReplyDeleteHello,
ReplyDeleteI work in a warehouse, and we are considering a transition to LED lighting. The energy savings could really add up, but the cost of the installation might prohibit the switch. A commercial LED lighting specialist is coming to give us a quote today.
3W LED bulbs, IP65 waterproof LED
I think led lights bulb is better than the normal lights bulb. Led lights are power saver, it consume lesser electricity than the other lights and it also has the same range of lights just like the normal bulbs.
ReplyDeleteI think you can get something like that in led röhre!
ReplyDeleteVery nice way to telecast your notice. Led Display can be another good option to broad cast your message in front of people.
ReplyDeleteHello! LED lights save a lot of energy as it turn almost all the consumed energy into light. Heat emission is bare minimum in LED lights. This helps to save a lot of money in the long run and also gives a green' aspect to the company.
ReplyDeleteWhile party lighting effects today are often controlled and produced by complex computer programs hooked up to lighting equipment that sync the disco lights to the music, those hoping for an easier method can also re-create the look of the disco. Whether you're making led lights for stage for teenagers or adults, this dj lighting australia is a simple way to jazz up a room.
ReplyDeleteLED lights replaces all the lights because it power saving as comparison to other lights and has the more design..
ReplyDeleteGood blog thank you for sharing information
LED bulb manufacturers india
Nice information about LED Lights.Good one thank you
ReplyDeleteLED Bulb manufacturers india
Great blog post. I used to be checking continuously this blog and I am impressed! Extremely helpful information specially the closing phase :) I deal with such info a lot. I used to be seeking this particular information for a very lengthy time. Thanks and good luck.
ReplyDeleteLED light
Thanks for great information. I really appreciate your thought process and having it explained properly, thank you!
ReplyDeleteModern rugs
Very impressive blog .LED Light manufacturers and suppliers - Delhi/India based LED Light wholesale Exporters and provide quality many kinds of LED Downlights lights products. Our strong believe in the Moto reflects in punch line "BIJLEE BACHAYE ROSHNI BADHAYE" Feel free to call us + 011 65194474, 011 65394474 and visit : LED Light Manufacturers India
ReplyDeleteNice Post!
ReplyDeleteLED lights have really come a long way. The technology has evolved in the most brilliant manner. With the passage of time. The led lighting are supposed to be one of the most energy efficient lights as they convert almost 80 percent of electrical energy into light energy if designed properly.
I really appreciate your thought process and having it explained properly, panel light thank you!
ReplyDeleteReally I impress to see the above photos and read this article.
ReplyDeletephotography and video in jamaica
Really it's a great post. I am impressed from your post.
ReplyDeleteAudio Rental Washington DC
Lamps and Lights Manufacturers in India - get high quality lamps and light from Indian supplier at cheap price all over the world. We are one of the leading manufacturers of lamps and light in India. We provide our products all over the world.
ReplyDeletePainting from Photo Photo to painting from photo 100% handmade in oil, charcoal, pencil or watercolor paintings from photos are unique personalized gifts by professional portrait artists. All of our portrait artists have degrees in fine art and years of professional experience. Every painting is examined by our senior portrait artists to ensure best quality. We only use premium quality specialized art supplies to create your painting. Contact us for custom made, high quality oil paintings at an affordable cost and quick worldwide delivery that allows you to express your creativity easily and make great art.
ReplyDeleteLamp and Light manufacturers- If you are sick and tired of your regular lights and lamps so want some change than you should definitely try our products. We are one of the Leading manufacturers of lamps and light in India.
ReplyDeleteReally a wonderful post! I like it very much. Here I find everything in details.
ReplyDeleteLed spot
Thank you for your post.It was quite interesting. check this out http://greensignage.kr/spboard.html it will be useful for your.
ReplyDeletePositive site, where did u come up the information on this have read a few of the on your website now, and I really like your style. Thanks a million and please keep up the effective work.
ReplyDeleteLED lighting in Saudi Arabia
Spotlights Manufacturers in India- If you are looking for Spotlights, you are in the right place. Here, you will notice all kinds LED strip fixture that you simply will consider, with something for each quite of home or business.
ReplyDeleteYour E-Book was very enlightening, great info ! I'm ready to step up to a full frame camera from my D5300. I'm considering the Nikon D810 or the Sony a7S II . I have read that the a7S II has awesome low light ability, but I feel Sony has limited lenses . Any advice you could give me would be helpful. thanks
ReplyDeleteWood Tripod Lamp Lights Manufacturers- Discover Tripod Lamp Lights bases natural wood at onyxexports , a manufacturer of furniture and design objects, useful and accessible. the Tripod lamp base features raw material coupled with a northern and tapered shape. The solid ash provides this tripod a heat feel and a comfy style. Combined with a lightweight shade, it'll enhance the lighting by creating it soft and subtle. Contrasted with a dark or colored lampshade, it'll filter the light to give your living space a more intimate style.
ReplyDeleteBy the years lighting technology have been changed but now LED Lighting solutions have brought revolution in the industry of lighting. Commercial consumers and industries are changing traditional lighting with LED lighting as more energy efficient lighting.
ReplyDeleteLED DECORATIVE LIGHTS IN SAUDI ARABIA
We use LED lightning because it is more reliable and has long lives.
ReplyDeleteNice information.Also the twilight star system panel is a state of the art module star system that creates a nighttime starry effect. The system includes a proprietary LED light source that can generate special effects.
ReplyDeleteMore information please visit http://star-panels.com/
Truly superb blog, I don’t have actual words to praise in regards for this
ReplyDeleteVideo wall
DEOL DISPLAY SYSTEMS, manufactures of high quality LED signs for a wide range of industries. Deol Display Systems (DDS) specializes in custom LED signs based on customer specifications. Starting with our proven standard design, we offer exactly as much customization as necessary to meet your needs – quickly and efficiently. We understand our customers have choices, therefore we strive on customer service perfection. We take pride and responsibility in the work that we do, therefore all of our products are backed by an industry leading warranty. Should you ever need warranty related service, we're just a phone call/e-mail away.
ReplyDeleteFull Color Outdoor Series
..Hey great work.. I loved this post..Thanks for sharing this information. LED Fixtures
ReplyDeleteGreat Blog and excellent elaboration about the product.
ReplyDeleteLED LIGHT
LED LIGHTING
LED LIGHTS SUPPLIERS IN SAUDI ARABIA
Aww I loved this post. Mind blowing..Very Informative Post..Parking Lot Lights
ReplyDeleteDear Admin,
ReplyDeleteI read this blog. I think , the content of this blog is very nice and useful.
Led flood lights
ReplyDeletethe above content you are posted is very nice.
big boss latest news
bigg boss season 10 contestants
kapil sharma show casting
kapil sharma show wikipedia
sunny leone hd wallpaper
sunny leone husband wallpapers
good morning images free download
free good morning images download
Happy Navratri Images
Happy Fathers Day Sms Wishes Messsages
Happy 4th of July Quotes
DEOL DISPLAY SYSTEMS is service manufacturer /producer of indoor and outside LED signs and shows. DEOL DISPLAY SYSTEMS offers industry driving LED display innovation and answers for change your space into an advanced world.
ReplyDeleteHigh quality LED signs
I have been reading your posts regularly. I need to say that you are doing a fantastic job. Please keep up the great work.
ReplyDeletepower lead system
This article surely helps for all.
ReplyDeleteBest Led Grow Lights
I do not know if it’s just me or if everyone else experiencing
ReplyDeleteissues with your site. It appears as though some of the text within your posts
are running off the screen. Can somebody else please provide feedbackThis might be a problem with my internet browser because I’ve had
this happen before.
Happy Veterans Day 2016 Images
Happy Veterans Day 2016 Pictures
Happy Veterans Day 2016 Pics
Happy Veterans Day 2016 Quotes
Happy Veterans Day 2016 Wishes
Happy Veterans Day 2016 Photos
Happy Veterans Day 2016 Wallpapers
Happy Halloween Pictures 2016
ReplyDeleteHappy Halloween 2016 Images
Happy Halloween 2016 Pictures
Happy Halloween 2016 Photos
Happy Halloween 2016 Wallpapers
Happy Halloween 2016 Quotes
Happy Halloween 2016 Greetings
Happy Halloween 2016 Sayings
Happy Halloween 2016 Wishes
Very nice article it very much detailed and nice presented.. Visit:
ReplyDeleteLed Signs For Business
ReplyDeleteEnergy efficient lighting Petroarmour provides energy efficient LED lighting solutions for industrial, outdoor and commercial projects throughout the Middle East and Africa.
Have read many blogs in the net but have never come across such a well written blog. Good work keep it up.
ReplyDeleteLed Grow Lights
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
ReplyDeleteHappy Halloween 2016
ReplyDeleteHappy Halloween 2016 Images
Happy Halloween Pictures 2016
Happy Halloween 2016 Quotes
Happy Halloween 2016 Images for facebook and whatsapp
Happy Halloween 2016 Wallpapers
Happy Halloween 2016 Greetings
Happy Halloween 2016 Sayings
Happy Halloween 2016 Wishes
Happy Halloween 2016 Messages
Happy Halloween 2016 Jokes
Happy Halloween 2016 Trolls
Halloween Pumpkin Carving Ideas 2016
Halloween Pumpkin Carving Stencils Patterns 2016
Nice post such an informative knowledge regarding Led light i also want to share somethink for Led light future in 21st Century
ReplyDeleteLed light manufacturers in india
From last few years lighting technology have been changed but now LED Lighting solutions have brought revolution in the industry of lighting.
ReplyDeleteLED Panel
Thanks for sharing such a great information with us its really interesting and informative . looking forward to see more update like that Thanks again.
ReplyDeleteOff Road Light Bars
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteHi people,
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for this wonderful article really!
If someone want to learn more about Led Lighting Products I think this is the right place for you!
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteWonder full Blog!Now day everyone using Led lightning because it is more reliable and has long lives.
ReplyDeleteLight Panels Australia
DEOL DISPLAY SYSTEMS is service manufacturer /producer of indoor and outside LED signs and shows. DEOL DISPLAY SYSTEMS offers industry driving LED display innovation and answers for change your space into an advanced world.
ReplyDeleteFlexible led Display Panels
ReplyDeletethanks for the nice article great work
Holi Images
The Best Leading Electronic Store in Pakistan.
ReplyDeleteArduino price in Pakistan
Raspberry Pi price in Pakistan
Esp8266 price in Pakistan
Fluke price in Pakistan
Mastech price in Pakistan
Prova price in Pakistan
TES price in Pakistan
Lutron price in Pakistan
Sanwa price in Pakistan
Nice led lights!!
ReplyDeleteParks in London
Best Bars in Australia
Extinct Volcano in Australia
Romantic Weekend America
Budget Trip to Paris
Travel Accidental Insurance Claim
Travel Safe Tips
Plan Holiday in Manarola Italy
I agree with you. Thank you for sharing the update. It is interesting to have it discussed widely, so that we can gain more objective opinions.
ReplyDeleteSynergy & Primavera P6 Support
Saint Patrick's Day, or the Feast of Saint Patrick (Irish: Lá Fhéile Pádraig, "the Day of the Festival of Patrick"), is a cultural and religious celebration held on 17 March, the traditional death date of Saint Patrick ( c. AD 385–461), the foremost patron saint of Ireland.
ReplyDeleteSt Patrick Day Quotes Blessings, Irish Sayings
St Patrick’s Day Jokes for Teachers
St Patrick’s Day Jokes and Riddles
St Patricks Day Quotes
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteA profitable blog.
ReplyDeleteWe collect lots of information regarding led driveway lights.
I am so glad because you share important data.
led driveway lights
ReplyDeletePlease keep sharing more and more inf0ormation about this.
Synergy &Primavera P6 Support
the best range of LED lights for bikes, bike headlights, bike brake lights
ReplyDeleteI wanted to thank you for this great read!! I definitely enjoying every little bit of it Smile I have you bookmarked to check out new stuff you post.
ReplyDeleteSynergy & Primavera P6 Support
ap 10th class results 2017
ReplyDeletessc result telangana
Wow!nice article and containing alot of information about the led signs.
ReplyDeleteWell done.
custom led sign
DEOL DISPLAY SYSTEMS, manufactures of high quality LED signs for a wide range of industries. Deol Display Systems (DDS) specializes in custom LED signs based on customer specifications.
ReplyDeletehigh quality LED signs
Thanks for the information you share it about the led lights and I really must appreciate your work.
ReplyDeleteLED highbay light
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteHello very nice information Please keep sharing more and more information about this. Pendant Lighting
ReplyDeleteI agree with you. Thank you for sharing the update. It is interesting to have it discussed widely, so that we can gain more objective opinions.
ReplyDeleteSynergy & Primavera P6 Support
Well, your blog is very informative, thank you for posting such useful blog as it is very accurate. But i have another website with much better detail than this you must visitwww.helpadya.com Post Free Ads.
ReplyDeleteGet Cheap Web Hosting Services in India
ReplyDeleteLiveMNC is one of the best cheap web hosting services provider company in India. We have wide range of web hosting plan suitable for your business.
We Craft Stunning Websites, App and Digital Marketing.
cheap web hosting services in India
Best App Development and Digital Marketing services in India
Call: + 91-9461234545 |(Multi-channel)(LiveMNC.com)
Led night light is important for you and your children. Toilet night light helps you to peek at your kids without waking them up and necessary for preschoolers to help them find the way to the washroom. Besides, these night lights also make your kids fearless when they are scared of the darkness and scary monster’s chase.
ReplyDeleteVery good blog LED TV Service Centre in Hyderabad
ReplyDeleteVery good blog.Very useful for people who are into LED TV Service Centre in Hyderabad
ReplyDeleteHey, that’s really a good post on pets for sale in Delhi, i really like your blog as the information is very useful if you are a pet lover. Well, there is one more site for the same service www.helpadya.com you should check it for more detail.
ReplyDeleteGood website! I truly love how it is easy on my eyes and the data are well written. I am wondering how I could be notified whenever a new post has been made. I have subscribed to your feed which must do the trick! Have a great day!
ReplyDeleteSupergreen Solutions Townsville
Thanks for sharing it
ReplyDeleteI really like it this kind of information..........Great blog post and really helpful...... and your blog are very interesting and inspiring.
Midnightinfo
GATE Application Form 2018
BHU PAT Answer Key 2017
HPU BSc Nursing Result
Hey your blog is very nice, such useful information you are sharing. I really like your blog the information is very accurate and if you want to know more about free ad posting service,www.helpadya.com there is another website with best information.
ReplyDeleteExcellent explanation and discussion about the topic, people learn a lot by these blogs. thank u
ReplyDeletew11stop
Arduino uno
Arduino mega
Arduino board
5mm led
Hi, I really like your blog you’ve written very well. I must say you have lot of knowledge about this but I want to suggest you something that if you are looking forb Free ad Posting Websites www.helpadya.com there is one more website www.helpadya.com
ReplyDeleteHey thanks for this amazing post. You can also have a look at Outdoor Lighting for more information.
ReplyDeleteAwesome post! Thank you for providing this useful contents for us.
ReplyDeleteled driveway lights
Buy LED Bulbs| CFL Lights | and Lamps for Home | Office | Restaurant | Retail and Corridors Online only on www.orkus.in
ReplyDeleteTunisie Led site de vente en ligne des
ReplyDeleteluminaire tunisie Tunisie led, projecteur en tunisie.
Achetez des lampes LED de qualité aux meilleurs prix en Tunisie chez luminaire tunisie en ligne.
luminaire Led Tunisie, éclairage du futur, la lumière du 3ème millénaire.
Fournisseurs pour Spots d'éclairage à LED en Tunisie.
led Tunisie
eclairage tunisie
prix spot led encastrable tunisie
tube led tunisie
lampe led tunisie led Tunisie eclairage tunisie
lampe led tunisie
led Tunisie
legrand tunisie
somef tunisie
stiel by alpha tunisie
électricité tunisie
matriel bricolage tunisie
Awesome blog. I enjoyed reading your articles. This is truly a great read for me. I have bookmarked it and I am looking forward to reading new articles. Keep up the good work!
ReplyDeleteLarge Contemporary Chandeliers
Best LED Flashlight – Disco Light - Strobe Light SL App change your dark night into a clarity life. Use four different flashlights, disco light, and strobe light, and led light features in one app. This flashlight more strong-able and powerful light to competitor action with others all led lights on the store. Different mode blinking like a strobe light and use as an army flashlight torch.
ReplyDeletePlease share this with the other people because I got interesting information from here...
FlashLight
CCTV Camera Prices In Pakistan
ReplyDeleteThis is a great article with lots of informative resources. I appreciate your work this is really helpful for everyone. Check out our website transparent led screen for more Zoomvisual.com.sg related info!
ReplyDeleteThe Great article so far
ReplyDeletefor More Informative blogs
Online Grocery Store Bismi
ReplyDeleteVielen Dank für diesen informativen Beitrag.
ReplyDeleteLED Deckenleuchte
LED Hallenstrahler
LED Panel Dimmbar