Before You Buy The Godox AD400 Pro WATCH THIS | Best STUDIO Light From Godox | SK400II-V

[@RyanTroy]

Disclaimer. I was wrong. The SK400II-V has a 10 watt modeling light SK400II - $139 SK400IIV - $169 SK400II + Standard Reflector - $141 SK400IIv + Standard Reflector - $171 . My apologies

[@chrishilton6378]

The thing with me was, I needed a mobile light before I had a studio, so I picked up a couple of AD400s with the idea that if I ever did get a space, the AD400 could pull double duty. More up front cost but more flexibility. I've not been disappointed.

[@RyanTroy]

Yep! If you already got them then no point of switching them out. However I would suggest if you haven't already is investing in the adaptor that lets you plug it into the wall just so you don't even have to worry about charging the batteries. I was using the Optical Snoot and it was cutting the light so much that i was using full power and it drained the battery so fast but when i got that adaptor i was able to keep my modeling light on and continue to shoot with the snoot with no problem.

[@Rustomhavewalla]

Is it better to buy Elinchrom Three instead of Godox?

[@PBStudiosMediaGroup]

I have both lights and have run into the same power problem in studio. I also have 2 of the flashpoint speed lights . I tend to use them with the Ad400 so I do not have to worry about tripping over cords.

[@djtoman6875]

That's exactly why I still prefer to use battery-powered strobes even in the studio. I use SK400s for my rim lights since they're out of the way most of the time.

[@waynecoles6041]

I don't know, the SK400 is a great starting light for people to grab when wanting to jump into strobe (and beyond beginner too!) but it is not equivalent (or a replacement) to an AD400 pro. The equivalent studio flash from Godox is the QT400 which I think can be argued is better than the AD, but it is a similar price. I would always choose the AD400 over the SK400 if the money is available. If you just want to get into lighting, then sure the SK is great. I just don't think it can be compared to the AD400 PRO :) I'm planning to do mobile/location portraits, which is why I picked the AD400 if I were just in a static studio I would go for the QT400 though.

[@RyanTroy]

Im going to check out the QT400. Thank you!

[@julianrodriguez9254]

@@RyanTroy the Godox QT400III even comes with 40W LED Modeling, it has the ability to go down in power to 1/256 and it is more focused on freezing action. There are two other options as well the Godox QT600III and the QT1200III.

[@Photomeike]

Well done Ryan!

[@RyanTroy]

Thanks bro!!

[@photomaster1]

You bring up things that I thought were a no-brainer, outdoor strobes, and studio strobes. I picked up a Neewer Vision 4 300W outdoor strobe because I wanted to do a shoot with my son on a train. And it worked great I wanted to have a Godox but I couldn't justify the funds for testing out doing a nonprofessional outdoor shoot. The only interesting thing(s) that I've seen on way too many people doing outdoor shoots with strobes are a few people not using C-stands. I like my stuff and want to keep it as long as I can, with little to no risk... Thank you for your video and for providing people with your viewpoints.

[@RyanTroy]

Anytime brother! i use to love bringing C Stands because I didnt have to really worry about the lights tipping over but they became so heavy that i was just like eff it lol and just took the risk

[@snakechmr5191]

Like others, I purchased my AD400 to cover both studio and outdoor shoots. I looked at other Godox offerings, but found AD series the most versitile. I got a deal and caught mine on sale for around $350. The AC adapter was purchased for indoor/studio work. More recently, I picked up the AD200 to round out my strobe "team" that also includes a 860c III. Needless to say, I'm a fan of Godox products.

[@visionz_n_media]

Nice video. I have the sk400II-V and agree it is an amazing light. I usually get around the power issue by stopping down the aperture, use double diffusion, or feather the light more. If none of those are effective, I just switch over to my MS300II-V which is another great, cheap light to have in the studio.

[@RyanTroy]

I use to loveee that MS300 when i had my home studio.

[@geedeleo]

Is it powerful enough to use in a 65" umbrella ​@@RyanTroy

[@RyanTroy]

@@geedeleo yes all the power you need it’s just the minimum power is very bright.

[@IMDABROWN]

This video when over my head when I 1st watched it. I used a studio that had the older model and I had to circle back to your video. At 02:05 I think that made my eyes open. I'm make sure I use your links when I order this.

[@morrowaviation]

Good call man. Had not seriously considered the difference. Def take a closer look at the SK. Appreciate that.

[@nicholassmith7723]

I had a 600 Pro a few years back and ended up selling it because it was so cumbersome to bring around. Just picked up two AD100's at $128 each ( hard to pass up).. and now I'm debating between the 3/400 for an on location key light. The 100's are great to throw in a small bag so you have something. Really enjoying them so far.

[@RyanTroy]

i will be completely honest.. if weight was the reason you sold your 600 you will love the 300. I love my 400 but when im on location i only bring my 300 unless i know im about to battle a bright day

[@LMoProVisualComm]

AD400pro offers the best of both. just invest in the extension head and the AC power adapter and you're shooting alway in the studio. I recently upgraded all 3 of my AD400pro's with extension heads and AC power adapters for this very reason... did a 10 hour shoot with 2 of them plugged in and the ran the 3rd light off battery. people create heir own limitations by not making wise choices. here GODOX has made it possible to solve both indoor/outdoor problems... *once you buy the SK400 you're stuck!!! **is it worth the extra investment to get the AD400pro extension head and AC Power Adapter: HELL YEAH!!!

[@jaborgraphy]

With the studio light the Ms 300 V does the jobs as well and it goes to 1/32 at the lowest power as well

[@RyanTroy]

Yeah the MS 300 is a great light. 300 watts is usually my sweet spot

[@john_andresen]

If my flash output is too strong, I am using Neutral ND Filter with 1 or 2 stops in front of the flash.

[@piotr.czechowski]

Hard to compare those two lights. Just like you said it's 1/16 vs 1/256 power. It's about recycling time too. It's about HSS, it's about TTL. And it's about color consistency - you won't get that in those cheap lights. Those are totally different product and power shoudn't be main point to compare.

[@RyanTroy]

I can agree. I don’t really see much HSS with studio grade lights. TTL would be nice but that’s also not something most look for in studio grade lights. But yes the AD400 is way better of a light but I just wanted to remind or inform someone people that there are a cheaper option but you are right.

[@marckydasaint8730]

Both the AD 400 and AD 600 can be battery powered or used with a plug with the use of a separately purchased, AC Adapter pack.

[@RyanTroy]

This is correct. I actually own the adapter for the 400 but this video was mainly for people that wanted a cheaper option. I still love my ad400 pro as well.

[@mor.6860]

I got 2 of the Flashpoint 400 Pros, because most of my work is outside, but yes, if I was in a studio all the time, I would definitely go your route.

[@MrRay645]

Great video I had no idea the corded versions of the Godox lights were this low priced... FYI you can use ND gel to bring the power down, it's dirt cheap.

[@RyanTroy]

great idea!

[@stkuj]

The AD400 is prob Godox's best value for what you get. That being said, it too big (for my use case). I have 2 AD300 as I mainly shoot outdoor HSS. I have a 2nd (for rim and/or backup). The AD300 is the size of a 70-200 and I just store in my backpack. However, I do use both these lights in the studio too. I don't see the need to have "studio" strobes vs "outdoor" strobes.

[@RyanTroy]

AD300 Pros are my favorite lights.. i have two as well and keep two in my camera bag. I use them in the studio for rims and back ups as well.. and i have a AD400 Pro with the piece that makes it able to plug into the wall. But this was mainly for people that dont own an AD400 and needed a light in the studio. Some save up for the AD400 for that reason and a lot of natural light photographers outside wouldn't even bring their 400 outdoors they would use something like a 200 or a speedlight. for them i think this cheaper option would be better for studio lighting.

[@triggertroyvisuals]

What's good Ryan? I have both the SK400 and the Flashpoint ad400. I agree the SK400 holds tremendous value. To answer your question my flashpoint ad400 has the umbrella attachment.

[@RyanTroy]

Nice. When did you purchase it if you don’t mind me asking

[@iunderstanphotography2780]

I have an inexpensive QS400II Flash for $139 or soemthing back in the day when my Calumet light blew. Its heavy as Hell to carry (not really, but its heavier than my Alien Bee and Flashpoint Xplor300

[@KJDPhotographySA]

I have AD300pros and ad400pros in studio as the battery power is crucial as South Africa we have what we call loadshedding they turn off electricity in some of the areas for 4 hours at a time.

[@RyanTroy]

seriously???! how often do they do that??

[@KJDPhotographySA]

@@RyanTroy It's been better up to the recent elections, before that for a few years we were 2-3 day (2 x 2 hour off times and maybe a 4 hour through the evening time). It was one of the reasons I had to go the AD series route of lights. The other thing they are looking at is load reduction if you are pulling to much they will cut or reduce you via the smart meters.

[@PREEZYDAKID]

Dope video, as always. I actually was gonna purchase the AD300 after watching your video trashing the AD200 lol, but caught the AD400 on sale for what the AD300 usually runs ($400) so decided to just grab that instead. Have yet to use it, but definitely plan to whip it out now that the temp is rising out.

[@RyanTroy]

Make sure you put that bowens adapter on it too. that way it can take the godox mount and the bowens mount. you will have the best of both worlds

[@TMIDD]

Godox MS300V for President!

[@RyanTroy]

I miss that light! I know that use to be your baby

[@DanGilman]

Your video is 100% accurate! I actually have an Godox AD200 and the Godox SK400II (not the V, but then mine is effectively silent), and you nailed the plus/minuses that I've run into. If I had unlimited money I'd get all the wireless stuff, but anyone starting out can kit themselves out with an entire set of wired indoor studio lights and modifiers for the price of one wireless light (looking at you AD600Pro).

[@RyanTroy]

I love my AD600 pro… but when it falls I lose 1 year of life from how my heart races. I recently had the went blow it over and broke the bulb

[@parkviewphotography7529]

I like the fact the Godox AD400 Pro has an A/C adapter so you can plug it in and use it inside all day. This adapter is only $100.00. Watching this video has me thinking about which way I want to go now. The SK-400II-V looks solid!

[@jerrardbeasley4247]

Unless you need the features of the AD400 in the studio, the AC adapter doesn't make a lot of sense. For just a few dollars more you can get a whole other light.

[@RyanTroy]

It really all comes down to if you shoot outdoors. If you only shoot indoors then you probably should check into studio lights even the MS 300 is a good option

[@LMoProVisualComm]

smartest move ever is to have the best of both. I agree!!! just invest a few dollars more into the extension head and power adapter and the rest is a afterthought. people create heir own limitations by not making wise choices. here GODOX has made it possible to solve both indoor/outdoor problems...

[@justinweier4099]

This is a really great video. Out of curiosity, have you tried running the SK400II-V off of an external battery? I've seen at least 2 people running the SK400II off a Buff Vagabond Mini battery (120W, 130Wh). But I haven't been able to find any specifics of how well (or how long) such a setup will work. I started with a pair of KS400IIs and moved on to a pair of AD100pros specifically for the reason you mentioned (needing to get under 1/16 power). Keep up the great work man!

[@richardschultz6294]

Thank you for putting this video together, it was very helpful in making my decision.

[@RyanTroy]

You are so welcome!

[@wearetrackclub]

Nice video, Ryan! Really informative stuff. 🙌

[@RyanTroy]

Thank you! Glad you liked it!

[@Perfectly_imperfect_gamer]

I passed the 400pro and went for the 600pros with the cord attachment so it battery and corded for the price it was a no brainer to go for 200 w extra power.

[@RyanTroy]

I have the 600 pro as well but i only have that cord attachment for the 400.. i really want the attachment for both that lets you put the light on the lighstand and have a different head on it..

[@Perfectly_imperfect_gamer]

@@RyanTroy yeah I find the 600 for the price best bang for buck, it allows so much versatility studio or outdoor and with that much power your able to overpower the sun if needed in the right situations, having it be able to be attached by cord is an asset but I can tell you from on hand experience the AD600pro has not ran out of power during a studio shoot yet at over 500 images I just have the cord attachment as a backup. The only time I use it with cord is when using the modelling light then it's best to cord it but if just flashing away it will survive a shoot or two on battery 🔋, Great video mate and I'm now sub to you mate,

[@LouisLuzuka]

What do you recommend for a diffuser or umbrella or something to modify this light as a key light

[@vernonr7404]

I agree with itake: The batteries for the ad400 pro are terrible: If you let them run down, they refuse to recharge; shooting time with HSS can be very disappointing, and they're expensive as hell to replace. More stuff for landfills! Also I hate the cheap plastic lever - expect it to break anyday now while trying to get it tight enough.

[@LandonMcLillyPhotography]

Those glasses are fire. Where did you get them?

[@RyanTroy]

Amazon!

[@justinking6284]

Good stuff! Helped a lot, i appreciate this tutorial. I'm new to flash photography, any suggestions on good studio lights but also works really well with film?

[@louiswhite4909]

When you say film I am assuming you’re referring to 35mm or medium format perhaps. With that, these lights will be fine. Good lighting is good light regardless of digital or film. However, with film I would invest in a light meter. Or get your exposure right with digital and then transfer your setting to your digital camera. If you’re shooting film large format you may want more power than even 400ws especially stopped down.

[@justinking6284]

@@louiswhite4909 thank you!

[@jeffrey3205]

Hey Ryan, I think people are trying to get rid of cords if they are not using a pantograph studio ceiling track system. However I use a track system and sometimes because of each shoot is different I do need to go below 1/16 of power and the 400 and 600 offer that option. However what I found to be the best option are Alienbees, they go from full all the way down to 1/128 I've been considering using the Einstein Flash Units because the alienbees can't be controlled wirelessly. I wish Godox gave a basic flash option system similar to the alienbees but with options of battery power when needed. For me I've studied and researched and Black Friday with the 600 pros in sale gave me the best option. I see what you're saying and I'm not sure if there's any right answer given the present offerings from flash manufacturers. But I'd like to hear more discussions concerning this area. Great Video, short and direct.👍🏽

[@RyanTroy]

Thank you! yeah i really dont see many videos about the studio lights like i do with the AD series of lights so i just wanted to put it out there that there was a cheaper option. but I love my AD400 and 300s and 600!

Well xD i also bought the ad400 but after having the sk400. Mainly because there is an ac adapter too for the ad400 plus if i want to go out i can you batteries and the biggest factor was hss mode. Sk400 does not have hss and that was a bummer. Other than that the sk400 is amazing

[@RyanTroy]

Yeah at time we will need these portable lights and HSS is a major factor.

[@evanmariam4795]

i just ordered this Aad400 today from B&H lol before watch your video

[@shichaosun3298]

Does it do continuous shooting? Like 5 frames per second (something like that)?

[@RyanTroy]

Yes, it does.

[@veronicaiacob8095]

Hi! What light on batteries would you suggest for studio work? I find the wires so annoying!

[@RyanTroy]

If you need Batteries i would suggest the AD 400 Pro. it can cover anything you need to. if it is too expensive and you arent already invested in the godox brand then the Neewer 400 light is a great option. Neewer Q4 - amzn.to/3Wi3KAe Godox AD 400 Pro - amzn.to/3Wo9wRa Also if you are getting these lights you will need a trigger for them as well.

[@veronicaiacob8095]

@@RyanTroy Thank! You re truly a gem 🥰

[@RyanTroy]

@@veronicaiacob8095 anytime!

[@veronicaiacob8095]

@@RyanTroy I already have 2 Godox QT600II and wanna add a 3rd light that i can use both in studio and outdoors. Do you think I should get the Ad600 so they all have the same power?

[@RyanTroy]

@@veronicaiacob8095 yes but if ttl doesn’t matter to you I would suggest getting the flashpoint 600 from adorama. Its still a godox light and they have a non ttl 600 for such a great price right now

[@paigeofstylez]

My guy, part of the Trinity 💪🏿💪🏿💪🏿🙏🏿

[@RyanTroy]

🙏

[@lisajanene]

I’m a new photographer so most of this is over my head 😅 I’m getting into product photography, so I can help out my small business friends. Which of these would be better for a new product photographer who plans on doing this at home? But also may end up doing outdoor shoots now and again

[@RyanTroy]

For product photography I would say if you are on a budget.. grab a speed light.

[@promokator]

Thank you for this wideo. I would like to buy that light.

[@RyanTroy]

Happy that I can help

[@heretolearn8672]

Can you do a SL-60W VS SK400II-V review please?

[@Rustomhavewalla]

Do you recommend Elinchrom Three?

[@koolhand12]

Thanks Ryan, where are you located?

[@RyanTroy]

I am in Columbus Ohio

[@LouisLuzuka]

This is the dream 😮

[@keeswassenaar]

Its dumb to say why are you put off at 1/16 for the lowest power. 1. Why buy 2 lights instead of one. 2. Flash duration

[@billykid631]

Thank you fot this wideo 🙂

[@RyanTroy]

Thank you for watching!

[@Rustomhavewalla]

You should have done better homework before making this video. I don't know, I don't know, from you is irritating.

[@RyanTroy]

I will next time

[@wellwhatthen10101]

NOPE NOPE the problem with your SK400II-V is that the flashtube is not protected at all this is a very poor safety factor. Now if you had the QS 400II then this has a glass protector over the flashtube making it a far safer and better quality studio mono light