What Is the Difference Between a Speedlight and a Strobe?

If you are new to artificial lighting, the array of terminology and equipment can be a bit overwhelming at first. One of the most important distinctions is that between a speedlight and a strobe. Though the terms are sometimes used somewhat interchangeably, they are fundamentally different devices with distinct purposes. This great video tutorial will show you the difference between the two and what each is used for.

Coming to you from Jiggie Alejandrino, this helpful video will teach you the difference between speedlights and strobes. For practical intents and purposes, a speedlight is a smaller, less powerful, and often less expensive flash that can be mounted directly on your camera’s hot shoe or separately on a stand. On the other hand, strobes tend to be more expensive, but they offer significantly more power and can take a much wider range of modifiers, making them far more versatile, though they are less portable. It really comes down to your creative and practical needs, and many photographers use both depending on the situation. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Alejandrino. 

If you would like to continue learning about how to light a portrait, be sure to check out “Illuminating The Face: Lighting for Headshots and Portraits With Peter Hurley!”

Credits: FStoppers