The Evolution of LEDs in Lighting and Their Advantages

Why would you say that LEDs are not the 'best' type of lighting? What does it mean to be the best? It always depends on the specific context and requirements.

When I look back, it seems like not that long ago that LED lighting came with one primary trait: Bilious blue. Even recently, I have purchased LED flashlights that still emit those distinctly cold and unlikable blue lights. However, they are incredibly powerful and energy-efficient, with batteries lasting far longer.

Over the years, warmer output LEDs have become more prevalent. Initially, I had a few LED night lights that were still quite cold in their blue hue. However, newer models offered a much more pleasant, warm-white light. Similarly, the LED lanterns from Coleman, which I once used, now come in warmer hues, making them much more comfortable for use in outdoor settings.

Today, Walmart's shelves are nearly entirely stocked with LED bulbs, with the majority available in either daylight or warm-white options. It appears that Walmart, at least, no longer stocks CFLs or tungsten lamps. LED lighting has become the primary choice, and for me, it is undoubtedly the best solution so far.

Energy Savings and Their Impact on Photography

For photographers, LEDs offer significant advantages, particularly in terms of energy savings. With a small studio setup, the efficiency of LEDs can significantly reduce energy costs, making them an excellent choice.

Take my silly studio, for example. The lighting setup consists of 100-watt equivalent Voldemart 'Great Value' cheap warm-white LEDs in cheap work light spun-aluminum reflectors. These lights are "bounced" off surfaces that are not all white. To achieve the correct white balance on the white cove of the set, I use a custom white balance with the camera. This is one of the significant advantages of digital photography over film, as it allows for precise control and adjustment of lighting conditions.

Comparison with Traditional Lighting

In the 'old days', constant lights were typically tungsten, which produced more heat than light. Even in my real studio, I used tungsten halogen lights that were very powerful and bright, but extremely hot! These lights were capable of starting a fire, and working in the camera room during long sessions could see the temperature rise noticeably, especially in the summer when there was no air conditioning.

The LEDs in my silly studio, however, are not only energy-efficient but also incredibly versatile. I can use a Walmart plastic bag as a diffuser to soften the light output further. A CFL, on the other hand, would be far too hot to use a bag; it would melt immediately. The LEDs, on the other hand, are barely warm to the touch even after extended use.

Modern Camera Crew Lighting

Have you seen a news gathering camera crew lately? In the past, they used hot halogen lights on top of the cameras, which presented numerous issues. Now, they have LED arrays that are cool to the touch and perform just as well, if not better. These LED lights do not risk burning the operator or starting a fire, allowing the crew to film longer without changing batteries.

Moreover, the energy savings provided by LEDs make them an attractive option for any large or small-scale lighting project. The efficiency and versatility of these lights have propelled them to the forefront of the lighting industry, making them an absolute must-have for modern photographers and content creators.

In conclusion, while LED lighting may not be the 'best' in every single scenario, it stands out as a superior choice for most applications due to its energy efficiency, longevity, and versatile use in both small and large-scale settings.