A1 and on-camera lights
 

Hey everyone,

I'm considering purchasing an on-camera lighting solution, but I'm not sure how much wattage I will need. I intend to shoot in not-so-well lit structures and also around at night in the city. I expect my subjects to be about anywhere from 3ft to 20ft away from my camera. I have read about some 20watt lights from Sony, but not sure if this will provide enough light. I also plan on using this on-camera light for wedding receptions, and I don't mind having to carry a battery pack for it. Thanks.

Shooting 20feet away at night----- that is going to require some OOMPH !

I would recommend a Frezzolini Micro-Fill (Dimmable). Has 35Watts, and comes with separate battery pack (Nicad, but a better NiMh pack is also available):

thanks stu, have you ever tried or anyone for that matter a light that puts out 100w? what situations would I use that in?

No i've never tried one that powerful although they do exist and are used. Generally the problems with something that powerful are:

1) if any people in shot they will find it overbearingly bright and won't really be able to look anywhere towards the light/cam
2) They will kill even a hefty battery in no time at all
3) They will chuck out a huge amount of heat so have to be careful with diffusion if using any.

Lighting @ 20+ feet.
 

I really don't know if you are going to get 20 feet range out of any battery powered light. We used to use the Frezzi "Sun Gun" and that was pretty powerful, but the batteries were closer to weight of motorcycle batts. (Big old Anton Bauer belt, gave you a workout). Used to burn myself a lot too.

I'll suggest you consider the Litepanel brand, as it should be very lightweight, cool burning and not suck a battery dry as fast. I cannot speak for their range. LED's are getting better and better, the super bright ones are still expensive to produce, but next few years should dopr quite a bit.

Ifthe Litepanels cost puts you off, there are similar devices out there that may be cheaper.

I am back to amateur status now, so have not messed with any of this stuff.

I also used to use the cheap (walmart) halogen work lights plug them in, scrim them and adjust color bal on camera accordingly. Poor man's light kit.
PS A scrim greally helps prevent faces from being blown out in dark scene. IMO needed in wedding video for bride.