This Cluster Light is Made of 7 Godox AD200 Flashes
Like most photographers who have been working for many years, I have my favorite, go-to lights. These include the Broncolor Para 88, 133, and 222; the Broncolor ‘pre-2006 style’ Flooters; the Elinchrom Zoom Spots; and Elinchrom Litemotiv Indirect.
I have adapted all of these modifiers within the last year to fit the Flashpoint 1200H remote heads, as well as the 600Pro (AKA Godox AD600 Pro) and 600H Pro, as I prefer these mobile, lightweight, HSS capable flashes for the flexibility they provide over any other current brands or models.
Some of these modifier adaptations proved to be slightly more difficult and costly than expected, mostly due to the lack of efficient adapters on the market. But with some trial and error, and the help of a good metal shop, I finally got there!
I also like to use arrangements of multiple lights that are combined into one larger light source. For example, a tower of 3 strip boxes creates a nice rim/edge light, and using 2 such towers on each side of the subject, with an additional overhead strip, creates an easy-to-use backlight. Powered by 6 Flashpoint 600H Pro remote heads, as well as a 1200H remote head for the center strip, these 7 boxes work as one light.
For special effects, I sometimes also group several theatrical spots. This allows me to project lines, cycles, and other shapes. For greater control of the placement of these sharply defined lights, it is much easier to use several stacked spots.
A few months ago, I also experimented with using 4 Flashpoint eVOLV 200 (aka Godox AD200) mounted on a Really Right Stuff large flash bracket, shooting through the ring and off-centered.
This works nicely, but I decided to take it a step further by building a unique cluster light, with one Evolv in the center of the ring, and 6 additional units around it. This arrangement is easier to use than it sounds! The Evolve cluster can be set up in just a couple of minutes, and each of the 7 units can be controlled individually. For my taste, this clusters produces the best effect with the wide umbrella reflectors.
This cluster produces a very broad and powerful 1400ws output with a bright center. It looks a bit like combining the effects of a spotted and un-spotted larger Broncolor Para.
The cluster also has a great advantage for shooting outside, as unlike a big Para, the wind is generally not a problem for the cluster.
Since it also can be broken down into smaller pieces quickly, this Evolve cluster is very easy to take on the road. It does, however, require a solid stand for safe handling. Because of its unique qualities, this light is now among my favorites.
About the author: Markus Klinko is an international fashion/celebrity photographer who has worked with many of today’s most iconic stars of film, music, and fashion. The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author. You can find more of Klinko’s work on his website and Instagram.
Image credits: All photos by MARKUS&KOALA (@markusandkoala)
