Lowel Super Ambi Kit

Comments about Lowel Super Ambi Kit:

I will be using this kit for both photography (school pictures) and for moviemaking. It's a great kit! However, my only concern is that installing the lamps to the TOTA lights is very difficult. The instructions for installing is a bit vague. If anyone out there have a tip on how to install this lamp easier, let me know. My understanding is that we have to somehow move both lamp connectors inward before we can place the lamp between the two connectors. I tried doing it myself and was afraid to place too much tension pushing the lamp onto one connector for fear of breaking the lamp and possibly cutting my hand (of course, I could wear gloves, but the same thing holds true here- that is, the possibility of breaking the lamp).
The springs that hold the lamp are extremely tight.

Does anyone know about a 3rd party widget that can push the two connectors apart to make insertion of the lamp safe and easy?

Perhaps the lamp is very strong and can take the tension. True or false??

Thanks.....

Overall, this is a fantastic lighting kit and I would not hesitate to purchase it. I've used Lowel Lights in the past, but never had to install lamps. I am sure I will find an easy way to install the TOTA lamps eventually.
The instructions should be more clear in this regard.

PS---the case it comes with is good, but not as strong as a Pelican type case-- also, this kit is packed tightly (lots of items with this product), so it is difficult to repack everything after a shoot. I recommend buying a larger case or just bring what you need to the shoot and leave what you don't need at home.

Comments about Lowel Super Ambi Kit:

There is a ton in this kit. Definitely enough to light a room. My issue is with the quality of the lights. I know for the price you can't expect much but it's the little things. For instance, the "fresnel" is essentially a scrim, just enough to protect the lamp. I also have an issue with one of the Omni lights. When going from spot to flood, the lamp will actually hit the back of the light. Enough to actually break a lamp that only had about 2 hours on it.

All in all it's a decent starter kit if you're just building one. I personally am going to sell mine and go with nicer lights.

Comments about Lowel Super Ambi Kit:

I'm using this for video and looking to dab into photography as well with this kit. High quality, durable lights and accessories. Tungsten runs hot, and you can't adjust the output, only diffuse, soften, and color correct it. Still great none the less.

Comments about Lowel Super Ambi Kit:

This kit covers just about all the basis when working with Tungsten lighting. very versatile, easy to carry around. I actually bought two additional pro lights and but them in the case as well.

Comments about Lowel Super Ambi Kit:

I used to work with most of these lights in my digital video production class. These lights are awesome. This kit lets you do work wonders, and it comes with all sorts of accessories to help along the way. Keep in mind that the lights do run hot, so they will cause you or your subject to sweat a little bit and you will have to allow some time for the lights to cool down before you break them down for storage. However, I already knew that from previous experience. Also, the case is the cherry on top - it has all sorts of compartments and capabilities for you to organize everything to your preference.

The only thing is that you will need to buy your own replacement bulbs. Silly me, I was looking at the picture, and not reading the "what in the box" section, and I assumed that it came with extra bulbs because I saw a picture of the foam bulb cases. But they are just the enclosures alone, without any light bulbs. However, they are pretty handy to have once you get some extra replacement bulbs.

Also, you may want to get a few sand-bag weights if you plan on using them outside. If there is some wind, they are bound to loose their balance, especially the Rifa.

All-in-all, I really love this kit!

Comments about Lowel Super Ambi Kit:

If you can only carry one light set and do both still and video, this is the kit. Versatile and compact, this will do it all. It is virtually complete with controls and gels, takes little room in your car, and is easy to roll in and out of your job site. Wow!