Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps)

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

USES:: In studio constant lighting
PROS:: Great for studio setup
CONS:: Difficult to assemble
I purchased this item to use in my studio that has POOR natural light. I wanted it to enhance the little light that I did have. I experienced some difficulty putting the umbrella together. It took me almost an hour to assemble because the umbrella spokes were weirdly positioned. Once assembled though, it worked GREAT.
I recommend this item to anyone who is beginning to build their studio.
Great value & GREAT BUY!!

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

We use two Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kits in our studio.

Installation was straight forward, to ease the installation of the last rod for the soft box, we used a standard pair of pliers and applied some downward pressure about 2 inches out from the large end where it slips into the light head. This will align the end of the rod horizontal with the entry hole making it easier to insert.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

I photograph a lot of children and newborns and didn't want the 'flashy-ness' of a strobe, the continuous provides a great amount of light in addition to the natural light I usually use alone. It is a little on the big side and takes some time to set up, but is very easy to put together.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

This was my first time using this type of lamp. I bought it to shoot promotional videos, but haven't had a chance to use it yet at the moment of writing this.
Building the softbox was much harder than I expected. Akin to setting up a tent... maybe harder. Sticking the 8th metal spoke takes a lot of physical effort. I kept worrying that I would break something. But once it's done, it's solid. Just don't plan on removing the softbox at a whim, like I thought I would. Once it's on, that thing is there to stay.
Overall, the product is simple, to use. The construction appears to be of good quality and it has a professional look.
As for how "cool" it is, don't let the name fool you. The light that is emitted is pretty cool, but the lamp itself does generate heat from inside the softbox, and it will warm up a studio quite a bit over time.
One more thing: one of the six CFL bulbs in the kit was defective upon reception. I have returned it and I'm expecting a refund or replacement shortly.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

I bought this light with 1 octacool-9 and 2x9.5' heavy duty light stands about 9 month ago. I had the chance to use it several times since then.

On 2 occasions I did a shooting for a figure skating progam. I was set off the ice in a room with low neon ambiant light. I had to shoot from single skaters to group up to 20 persons. I have to say that those lights together were powerful enough. I did used the octacool-6 mainly as a fill light. For large group, I'm not sure this light would have been enough as main light source.
I was able to set at f:5.6, ISO 400 and at a shutter speed of 1/40 or 1/50s.

I also did some kids and baby pictures and having a continuous and cool lighting source is a must.

It is possible to switch on/off lights seperatly (3 switch for 6 lamps). The price is good for the amount of light in return and the general quality of the product is good. I was able to fit 1 octacool-9 and 1 octacool-6 into a 10"x18"x28" luggage (except for the light stands of course).

On the down side, setting up the light take some time and the softbox give me some trouble to assemble the first time. You must put the rod that hold the softbox in the head first and then in the outer edge of the softbox.

I am not sure if I had to use it, or travelling and disassembling it every day, that it would be the right product. In my opinion it is a good product for a starter kit, video, home studio and for those who have a small budget.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

Excellent for portraits and small groups!. Easy to set up light is very soft and the colors are excellent.The octcacool are cool & cool looking. The octabox is very well made. Good buy for the money.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

The Octacool-6 kicks out a lot of light. I find i dont need to have all of them on.

For the price it is well made except the stitching on the Octabox. I can see a few seams have popped already.

As far as the "cool to the touch light" statement made in the demo, - that couldn't be farther from the truth. These lights burn hot. I think what they mean is they don't emit as much heat as other lights. In any case, don't touch them.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

Great price! Good Quality! The only thing I had go wrong was a defective bulb (not broken, but defective. Very impressed with the build quality and the light spray. I'll be buying 2 more.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

The reflectors' ribs take some strength & dexterity to wrestle into place, but once in place, the operation is flawless, with cool, even light, easy-on/easy-off diffusers, solid construction.

Used mostly for portraits & interviews. HDVideo & Stills.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

I was recommended this lighting kit via B&H when I realized that I needed continuous light for my instructional DVD project since I work during the day and moonlight as a creative. I have never used or purchased lighting before, and was pleasantly surprised by how easy to assemble it was and how it provides the lighting that I need, with switches that turn on/off the lights, 2 at a time. It also gives me the options to use the octagonal shape to reflect the light, a detachable cover for the front with velcro, and another option with a second layer behind it, and also a dish. I mainly use them to light a demonstration I do on a table top, without having to buy time by playing with daylight. It is cool to the touch, and not hot to handle at the base after shooting... Great thus far! My only concern is that I may have to do some post production to tone down the bright "coolness" that the bulbs give off; my ideal is to go for a natural (tint of warmth yellow) daylight.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

This is a well-built light and soft box that is being used for video recording. It is good for studio work, but I would hate to have to dismantle and reassemble it regular for location shoots.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

Work out of the box ... Used two Kits to light green screen background ..
A lot of light with no heat ....

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

Love the product

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

There was a defective bulb on arrival, but new one was sent immediately free of charge. Light box works well and gives off great amount of lighting. Adjustable light intensity works wonderful. However, setup and take-down time does require patience. Air cussioned stands don't offer much protection in colder environments and feel a little cheap. I would recommend for a good studio setup, but you might want to pay the higher price for more portable setup when doing on location work. For the price, you can't beat this setup.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

Replaced a homemade lighting setup for small product photography. Debated between strobes and continuous lighting - very happy with these lights. Switches make it easy to control light output. Included stands are sturdy and easy to adjust. Quality lights at an affordable price.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

Powerful, light weight and soft.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

I've wanted one of these for a while, finally got one and was not disappointed. Nice, bright, even light dispersion, it's seriously made a positive difference with my indoor shooting.

I use this lighting kit for my main light source and use my smaller Hot Shoe/flash soft box kit to highlight where needed. The Octacool 6 Fluorescent Lighting Kit sufficiently give's me the main light source needed for the smaller area's I shoot in.

The only thing that I will point out as a possible "con" would be the plastic stand mount bracket and the six soft box steel rod's are a pain to install, not the most convenient assembly but all in all, great product.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

I use for on location lighting. Nice clean light only draw back is that it takes awhile to set up.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

I gave this a 5 stars for the lights. The bracket that fits into the tripod is made of plastic. One busted when I was setting it up but B&H replace it with no problems. Be careful setting it up.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

Best use is with a reflector to acquire 3 point lighting
It is great the many options available. Three switches to vary lighting then you have the two separate diffusers. Very sturdy stands with good extension height.
Was unfortunate that kit arrived one bulb damaged. Good thing I checked before 2 days passed after delivery so B&H sent out a replacement rapidly.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

USES:: In studio constant lighting
PROS:: Great for studio setup
CONS:: Difficult to assemble
I purchased this item to use in my studio that has POOR natural light. I wanted it to enhance the little light that I did have. I experienced some difficulty putting the umbrella together. It took me almost an hour to assemble because the umbrella spokes were weirdly positioned. Once assembled though, it worked GREAT.
I recommend this item to anyone who is beginning to build their studio.
Great value & GREAT BUY!!

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

We use two Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kits in our studio.

Installation was straight forward, to ease the installation of the last rod for the soft box, we used a standard pair of pliers and applied some downward pressure about 2 inches out from the large end where it slips into the light head. This will align the end of the rod horizontal with the entry hole making it easier to insert.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

I photograph a lot of children and newborns and didn't want the 'flashy-ness' of a strobe, the continuous provides a great amount of light in addition to the natural light I usually use alone. It is a little on the big side and takes some time to set up, but is very easy to put together.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

This was my first time using this type of lamp. I bought it to shoot promotional videos, but haven't had a chance to use it yet at the moment of writing this.
Building the softbox was much harder than I expected. Akin to setting up a tent... maybe harder. Sticking the 8th metal spoke takes a lot of physical effort. I kept worrying that I would break something. But once it's done, it's solid. Just don't plan on removing the softbox at a whim, like I thought I would. Once it's on, that thing is there to stay.
Overall, the product is simple, to use. The construction appears to be of good quality and it has a professional look.
As for how "cool" it is, don't let the name fool you. The light that is emitted is pretty cool, but the lamp itself does generate heat from inside the softbox, and it will warm up a studio quite a bit over time.
One more thing: one of the six CFL bulbs in the kit was defective upon reception. I have returned it and I'm expecting a refund or replacement shortly.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

I bought this light with 1 octacool-9 and 2x9.5' heavy duty light stands about 9 month ago. I had the chance to use it several times since then.

On 2 occasions I did a shooting for a figure skating progam. I was set off the ice in a room with low neon ambiant light. I had to shoot from single skaters to group up to 20 persons. I have to say that those lights together were powerful enough. I did used the octacool-6 mainly as a fill light. For large group, I'm not sure this light would have been enough as main light source.
I was able to set at f:5.6, ISO 400 and at a shutter speed of 1/40 or 1/50s.

I also did some kids and baby pictures and having a continuous and cool lighting source is a must.

It is possible to switch on/off lights seperatly (3 switch for 6 lamps). The price is good for the amount of light in return and the general quality of the product is good. I was able to fit 1 octacool-9 and 1 octacool-6 into a 10"x18"x28" luggage (except for the light stands of course).

On the down side, setting up the light take some time and the softbox give me some trouble to assemble the first time. You must put the rod that hold the softbox in the head first and then in the outer edge of the softbox.

I am not sure if I had to use it, or travelling and disassembling it every day, that it would be the right product. In my opinion it is a good product for a starter kit, video, home studio and for those who have a small budget.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

Excellent for portraits and small groups!. Easy to set up light is very soft and the colors are excellent.The octcacool are cool & cool looking. The octabox is very well made. Good buy for the money.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

The Octacool-6 kicks out a lot of light. I find i dont need to have all of them on.

For the price it is well made except the stitching on the Octabox. I can see a few seams have popped already.

As far as the "cool to the touch light" statement made in the demo, - that couldn't be farther from the truth. These lights burn hot. I think what they mean is they don't emit as much heat as other lights. In any case, don't touch them.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

Great price! Good Quality! The only thing I had go wrong was a defective bulb (not broken, but defective. Very impressed with the build quality and the light spray. I'll be buying 2 more.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

The reflectors' ribs take some strength & dexterity to wrestle into place, but once in place, the operation is flawless, with cool, even light, easy-on/easy-off diffusers, solid construction.

Used mostly for portraits & interviews. HDVideo & Stills.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

I was recommended this lighting kit via B&H when I realized that I needed continuous light for my instructional DVD project since I work during the day and moonlight as a creative. I have never used or purchased lighting before, and was pleasantly surprised by how easy to assemble it was and how it provides the lighting that I need, with switches that turn on/off the lights, 2 at a time. It also gives me the options to use the octagonal shape to reflect the light, a detachable cover for the front with velcro, and another option with a second layer behind it, and also a dish. I mainly use them to light a demonstration I do on a table top, without having to buy time by playing with daylight. It is cool to the touch, and not hot to handle at the base after shooting... Great thus far! My only concern is that I may have to do some post production to tone down the bright "coolness" that the bulbs give off; my ideal is to go for a natural (tint of warmth yellow) daylight.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

This is a well-built light and soft box that is being used for video recording. It is good for studio work, but I would hate to have to dismantle and reassemble it regular for location shoots.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

Work out of the box ... Used two Kits to light green screen background ..
A lot of light with no heat ....

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

Love the product

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

There was a defective bulb on arrival, but new one was sent immediately free of charge. Light box works well and gives off great amount of lighting. Adjustable light intensity works wonderful. However, setup and take-down time does require patience. Air cussioned stands don't offer much protection in colder environments and feel a little cheap. I would recommend for a good studio setup, but you might want to pay the higher price for more portable setup when doing on location work. For the price, you can't beat this setup.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

Replaced a homemade lighting setup for small product photography. Debated between strobes and continuous lighting - very happy with these lights. Switches make it easy to control light output. Included stands are sturdy and easy to adjust. Quality lights at an affordable price.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

Powerful, light weight and soft.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

I've wanted one of these for a while, finally got one and was not disappointed. Nice, bright, even light dispersion, it's seriously made a positive difference with my indoor shooting.

I use this lighting kit for my main light source and use my smaller Hot Shoe/flash soft box kit to highlight where needed. The Octacool 6 Fluorescent Lighting Kit sufficiently give's me the main light source needed for the smaller area's I shoot in.

The only thing that I will point out as a possible "con" would be the plastic stand mount bracket and the six soft box steel rod's are a pain to install, not the most convenient assembly but all in all, great product.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

I use for on location lighting. Nice clean light only draw back is that it takes awhile to set up.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

I gave this a 5 stars for the lights. The bracket that fits into the tripod is made of plastic. One busted when I was setting it up but B&H replace it with no problems. Be careful setting it up.

Comments about Impact Octacool-6 Fluorescent Light Kit with Octabox (6 Lamps):

Best use is with a reflector to acquire 3 point lighting
It is great the many options available. Three switches to vary lighting then you have the two separate diffusers. Very sturdy stands with good extension height.
Was unfortunate that kit arrived one bulb damaged. Good thing I checked before 2 days passed after delivery so B&H sent out a replacement rapidly.