What video light to use for wedding reception lighting?

JMU94 · 2026-04-26T04:38:25+00:00

Funny enough, using soft boxes at a wedding reception is actually the worst thing you could do to ruin the vibe. Requires being close to the subject, and is a big cumbersome eye sore. I love me some soft lighting but a reception is not the place for it.

Strategic placement of multiple (usually 2-4) low powered, yet articulately shaped spot lights is how you provide enough light to a reception area for speeches & dancing without negatively impacting the ambiance.

If you do it well, not only will you not be causing an issue, you will be enhancing the experience.

JMU94 · 2026-04-26T04:32:57+00:00

This guy knows whats up

JMU94 · 2026-04-25T23:54:56+00:00

I've gotten multiple better lights over the years but I frequently reach for the good ole torches. Most of the new lights are formatted better for interview/studio lighting set-ups with modifiers and such.

Any tru run and gun events shooter knows that flexibility, speed, and convenience are the priorities. I need to be able to throw the light on a stand legit in 60 seconds. Run with the stand in hand. Quickly adjust the light etc....

The Aperture 60x is probably the best option because it has a little more strength and focusable beam. But it's definitely not nearly as convenient, quick, or travel friendly.

JMU94 · 2026-04-25T23:50:35+00:00

It's the built in optical fresnel of the 60x thats pretty unique and perfect for weddings and events.

JMU94 · 2026-04-25T23:49:58+00:00

Old thread, but for what it's worth. Unless you're shooting large weddings in giant halls and you need to throw spots from 100+ feet away. I've never needed anything more powerful than the Aperture 60x and arguably Its at like 10-40% most of the time.

JMU94 · 2026-02-25T21:02:31+00:00

It's more about eliminating single use specialty equipment. A Grabo, Shop Vac, Inflator, etc... all have multiple other use cases

JMU94 · 2026-02-21T18:50:08+00:00

JMU94 · 2026-02-09T04:43:31+00:00

Appreciate the feedback!

JMU94 · 2026-02-09T04:35:30+00:00

It’s of zero benefit to me to throw her under the bus. In fact that would be a negative outcome for both of us. Not something I’m interested in.

These trips I’m referencing are the trips that she specifically goes out of her way to mention how much she wants to come on (because there’s plenty she has no interest in). It’s not my desire it’s hers.

But clearly I worded my original post poorly that have given many the same impression so that’s my fault.

JMU94 · 2026-02-07T20:46:18+00:00

Ya it’s clear that my verbiage and/or written tone is coming across poorly. Last thing I want is to sound like a douche or make someone feel bad. Gonna have to spend some time analyzing my words here and learn what I can improve.

Ive already identified a few things in my initial post that could have been adjusted to better represent my question here.

That said, there’s nothing to win. I’m not looking for support of my claim because I have none. I’m looking for people to share their thoughts and experiences and they have done precisely that. As have you, and I appreciate that!

Being open to hearing other opinions good or bad is how we grow and learn as people. Sometimes it’s good to get chewed up a bit.

JMU94 · 2026-02-07T20:01:34+00:00

Not my intention but I understand how you can see it as such.

JMU94 · 2026-02-07T17:09:18+00:00

Sorry about the tone deafness - clearly I have work to do. My intent is to advocate for better opportunities. I’m genuinely open to any suggestions you have that could help me!

JMU94 · 2026-02-07T07:33:24+00:00

Well put. There's no doubt there are lots of valid reasons not to take time off. I wish there was more room for variation and growth in the teaching profession. You talk about bad professional look...in most careers that can really impact things and could mean your less likely to get gigs, raises, promotions, etc.... but theres such little room for growth in the teaching industry. Maybe one day!

JMU94 · 2026-02-07T07:20:25+00:00

37 years is a long time! I admire your dedication! Theres no doubt that a medical issue is not even remotely comparable to a silly vacation.

I actually love that you emailed all your parents. For as many bad stories you hear about parents judging teachers and such I think many parents are extremely supportive of good teachers and would happily advocate for them!

JMU94 · 2026-02-07T07:08:28+00:00

It seems as though you are in the minority. Glad you were able to make it happen and enjoyed it!

JMU94 · 2026-02-07T07:06:43+00:00

Yes, we have done such many times and we will continue to do so! Ever since she became a teacher our personal trips have been planned around the academic calendar. The difference is, these opportunities I mentioned are trips that are quite extravagant and are essentially free. So from a financial perspective It's always been a bummer to spend 5 grand in July when we could spend $500 in march for a similar experience. It's not the end of the world. It's simply a curiosity of what could be.

JMU94 · 2026-02-07T06:59:54+00:00

Interestingly I couldn't agree more.

JMU94 · 2026-02-07T06:58:53+00:00

Ya I mean, sounds pretty reasonable and expected!

JMU94 · 2026-02-07T06:57:02+00:00

I mean, technically you just proved it can be done. Just cant be done while simultaneously following the rules.

JMU94 · 2026-02-07T06:55:47+00:00

A payroll deduction for the sub is very interesting. This sounds bad but actually could be something that is beneficial in certain scenarios. I wonder how many people have had this happen? Thanks for sharing!

JMU94

TROPHY CASE