View Full Version : Zylight revisited


David Samelman
May 28th, 2008, 11:36 PM
I did some research before posting about the Zylight Z90. I looks like an interesting possibility to use with the EX-1. I haven't seen any recent posts from those who are using the light. We tried various lights (nrg, sachtler, frezzi) and none work well with the EX-1. They're still great with the Sony 300As, but I'm looking for real world feedback for those using the Zylight for weddings.

Thanks
David

Tim Polster
May 29th, 2008, 08:05 AM
Just wondering why the other lights did not work?

David Samelman
May 29th, 2008, 10:22 AM
The lighting is something we (initially) didn't really consider to be an issue. All of the lights we tested do not produce a wide enough coverage. What we noticed was the entire field of view is not lit. It make sense if you think about it. Those lights have been used with SD cameras shooting 4x3. Now you have a lot more real estate. We tried additional diffusers and were still not happy with the results. So now the research continues. It appears that the new generations of on-camera lights are made for 16x9. The Zylight, although expensive, seems to offer everything we would need (shooting weddings and events). I'm trying to get some real world feedback as I don't know anyone personally who has this light.

David
DMS

Ned Soltz
May 29th, 2008, 12:03 PM
I tested and reviewed the Z90 last year after NAB 2007 for one of my columns. It really is the most impressive LED light I've tested not just for its angle of coverage as you mention but also because of its color temperature and gel-color adjustments. Additionally, the bluetooth feature allows remote control of multiple lights. Pricey but well worth the money.

Steve Cahill
May 29th, 2008, 02:30 PM
Check out my Blog with the Zylight used with the Z1. Two blog entires about the Zylight, and some real world footage as well.Takes some time to download the clip on the page.

http://web.mac.com/stevecahill/Steve_Cahills_Blog/Blog/Entries/2008/3/12_Shot_with_Zylight.html

Tip McPartland
May 29th, 2008, 03:27 PM
I bought a Z-90 with all possible accessories to go with my XDCAM HD F350. That camera is now sold.

Check my post in the classifieds if you want it.

Tip McPartland
tipsd9video@msn.com
909 338-3160

David Samelman
May 29th, 2008, 11:51 PM
Ned - Your comments and evaluations are why the Zylight sounds interesting to me. Thank you for your reply.

Steve - Before posting I watched the clips on your blog. I found it VERY informative. I appreciate you taking the time to create such a great blog.

Tip - What is your opinion of the light? Is there a reason why you're not keeping it to use with another camera?

I'm also looking for specific feedback from anyone using the Zylight for weddings.

All the best.

David
DMS

Steve Cahill
May 30th, 2008, 08:20 AM
I use the Zylight on the F350 as well as on the EX1. I have been traveling as of late and use the EX1 as a smaller camera, @ $100.00 extra per bag, the cost of flying goes up quite fast, so small is good.

I just used the Zylight as a key light on the subject that was being interviewed, it worked great and was able to warm up the light through the controls in the color balance settings.

I can not speak how this would work for a wedding, good @ under 6 feet.