Light Stand Essentials
Light stands are a crucial part of a photographer’s studio equipment setup. The right stands will help your lights shine bright and exactly where you need them to! There are a few factors you should consider when adding a light stand to your setup. While many light stands feature standard mounts intended to work with most lights on the market, always double check to make sure the stand will attach to your light. It may be obvious, but you’ll also want to consider the height of your light stand and your normal use cases. Don’t forget to look at the base of the stand to see its footprint on the ground - studio space can be limited.
Most importantly, consider the light or other item you will be attaching to the stand. Not all light stands are created equal and depending on the use case you have, you’ll want to pay special attention to the amount of weight it can handle. A small LED panel light weighs very differently than a powerful studio monolight. Adding a studio weight bag to the base of your stand will help stabilize it. It's good practice to weigh down stands when they become rather top heavy, especially when using a C-Stand.
In this post we’ll review some of the top light stands available at ProMaster and how you can use them in your creative process.
This light stand is a great option for photographers just starting to build out their studio or those looking for a solid light stand to add to their space. The LS2(n) Light Stand is a medium duty light stand with a 9' maximum working height that is perfect for most studio applications. The LS2(n) features a multi-position mounting stud allowing for flexible mounting positions for your light. The quick release mounting stud lets you easily and quickly change the lights in your setup. This is a great option for an all around stand that can be used with the smaller LED lights to larger monolight heads.
Constructed of lightweight and strong aluminum, the LS4 Air Stand uses a reliable air cushioning system in all column riser sections to prevent accidental 'falling' of a light. The column locks keep their adjustment over time, which is important when working with a stand that extends up to 13.5 feet tall. With a flat black finish, you'll avoid any unwanted or unexpected glare and highlights during a shoot. Thanks to the remarkable height of this stand, you’re open to a world of new opportunities in your studio.
On the other end of the height spectrum, the ProMaster Mini Light Stand is designed for projects that require light at low or mid-level heights, with a usable height range of 1.5 to 4 feet. It utilizes secure column locks and robust aluminum tubing with a flat black finish to reduce glare. Weighing less than 1.7 pounds and folding down to less than 16 inches, the Mini Light Stand is an indispensable component of your lighting kit.
ProMaster LS-CT Compact Travel Light Stand
The ProMaster LS-CT Compact Travel Light Stand is a truly innovative retake on the traditional light stand. At 16", the LS-CT comes in at about half the size of other stands, but offers greater stability and versatility. Although designed for lighting, the LS-CT is sturdy enough to mount cameras, video equipment, microphones and reflectors–up to 6.6 lbs of equipment–even when fully extended to over 6'. The LS-CT Compact Travel Light Stand is a great option for travel photographers who need to bring a lighting setup with them wherever they go.
ProMaster’s 4234 Rolling Studio Stand is extremely versatile and works well in a studio that frequently changes. The double riser stand achieves a maximum height of 10’ with powerful column locks that supports a maximum load capacity of 22 lbs. Folding square legs create an incredibly sturdy base and locking wheels make it easy to roll heavy lights and equipment around a studio. The flat black finish will avoid unwanted glare and highlights during a shoot.
Professional C-Stand Kit with Turtle Base
ProMaster’s C-Stand Kits are an awesome option for photographers looking for a professional set up. The kit is available in three heights, 10.9’, 7.5’, and 5.5’ and each c-stand is constructed of sturdy steel. A true workhorse, the c-stands have an amazing load capacity of 22 lbs. This will allow you to easily set up something bulkier like a light with a softbox for instance. The stand's turtle base is detachable and the legs fold together for easy storage.
The kit includes a removable turtle base, steel extension arm, and two 2.5” grip heads made with a strong aluminum alloy. Each of the 2.5" grip heads has multiple size ports (5/8", 1/2", 3/8" & 3/16") for holding items like an extension arm, scrim, flag, baby stud, and more. These 2 1/2" heads rotate for best positioning. A special friction disc creates a powerful connection, so each head won't move after you set its position.
Concluding Thoughts
With the right setup you’re free to enjoy your shoot and create the images and video you envision. ProMaster light stands are available in a range of heights and bases to adapt to the setup you need. And don’t forget to add in a weight bag to better stabilize your setup! Check out all of the ProMaster light stands online or visit your local camera store for advice from industry experts.
