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Phottix Indra500 TTL Battery Powered Studio Light
Phottix Indra500 TTL Battery Powered Studio Light
B&H # PH00307 MFR # PH00307
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Product Highlights
- 500Ws Studio Strobe
- TTL, Manual and Stroboscopic Modes
- 1/8,000 Sec. Shutter Speed Possible
- Power Variable from 1/128 to Full
- Built-in Receivers for Nikon & Canon
- Built-in Phottix Strato II Receiver
- LED Modeling Light, Optional AC Adapter
- Bag, Shoulder Strap
- Includes 5,000mAh Battery and Charger
- 400 Full-Power Flashes
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Phottix Indra500 overview
- 1Description
Intended for photographers on the road, the Indra500 TTL Battery Powered Studio Light from Phottix offers a design driven by portability, flexibility and power. Both power cord-free and sync cord-free, the Indra500 is also hassle-free thanks to the Odin receivers for Nikon and Canon cameras built-into every unit.Phottix starts with a flash head with all the qualities of a studio flash such as 500Ws of power, adjustable from 1/128 to full power over an 8-stop range. Recycling time is 0.1 to 2 seconds with the included Li-ion polymer battery and 0.1 - 1 second with the optional AC adapter. Action-stopping flash durations as short as 1/15,000 (t.1) sec. are possible at reduced power settings for freezing splashes or peak-moment sports shots.
The Indra500's battery is the key to taking studio quality light out into the field. Photo sessions can have a fluid quality not possible when tethered to an AC cord; setups change in seconds rather than minutes - assistants can even handhold the lights. This can be done at distances up to 328' thanks to built-in radio receivers for Nikon and Canon cameras and use of the optional Odin 4-channel transmitter. The battery gets 400 full-power flashes on a 5-hour charge and thousands at minimum power.
This would be an impressive flash head if Phottix had just stopped there but the Indra500 is also TTL capable with Nikon and Canon cameras, allowing photographers to seamlessly transition in rapidly changing light conditions using their camera's auto-exposure technology. Using the optional transmitter, TTL power can be adjusted remotely +/- 3 EV, while manual mode has an expanded 8-stop range.
The Indra500 TTL ships with a Li-ion polymer battery, charger and reflector. A 110-220 VAC adapter is available for separate purchase.
- TTL
- Most studio lights function only in manual camera modes, limiting their use in fast-moving environments. The Indra500 TTL opens up new creative possibilities, allowing photographers to shoot in shutter and aperture priority modes while taking advantage of their camera's auto-exposure technology
- High Sync Speeds
- Traditional studio lights have sync speeds limited to 1/200-1/250 sec., making balancing flash and ambient light levels problematic. The Phottix Indra's High Speed Sync function allows speeds up to 1/8,000 sec. for a much wider exposure latitude
- Second Curtain Sync
- The Second Curtain Sync function fires the flash at the end of the exposure rather than the beginning, allowing use of slow shutter speeds to create a natural looking blur trail behind subjects in progressive motion
- Flash Bracketing
- Instead of altering the look of your shot by changing your aperture or shutter speed, let the Indra automatically vary its power to get lighter and darker shots around your prime exposure
- Stroboscopic Mode
- This mode allows you to capture sequential action by varying the Hertz rate from 1-100 Hz and the flash frequency from 1-100 times per exposure
- Built-in Triggering
- Adjust TTL exposure compensation +/- 3 EV or adjust power 1/3 or full stops over an 8-stop range in manual mode from up to 328' away with the optional Odin transmitter. The Indra has built-in Odin receivers for Nikon and Canon cameras. Phottix Strato II users can trigger the Indra 500 too, but in manual mode only
- Upgradeable
- The Indra500 TTL offers a USB port for future firmware upgrades. As camera technology changes the Indra can change along with it
- Bowens Reflector Mount
- The Indra500 comes with an umbrella reflector with a Bowens mount. It is also compatible with the other brand accessories that use this mount
In the Box
Phottix Indra500 TTL Battery Powered Studio Light
Table of Contents
- 1Description
Phottix Indra500 specs
| Flash Head | |
|---|---|
| Maximum Power | 4 to 500 Ws |
| Power Control | 8 Stops in 1/3-Stop Increments |
| Flash Duration | t.1: 1/15,000 to 1/250 Sec |
| Recycle Time | 0.1 to 2.0 Sec () |
| Color Temperature | 5500K ± 200K |
| Flash Ready Indicator | Audio, Visual |
| Accessory Fitting Type | Bowens S Type |
| Modeling Light | |
|---|---|
| Type | LED |
| Wattage | 4.5 W |
| Sync | |
|---|---|
| Sync Type | Optical, Radio |
| Sync Speed | 1/1/8000 Sec |
| Wireless Channels / Groups | 4 / X |
| Wireless Range |
328' / 100 m (Radio) 39.4' / 12 m (Optical) |
| Power | |
|---|---|
| AC Input Voltage | 110to220 VAC, 50 / 60 Hz |
| Battery | |
|---|---|
| Maximum Output Voltage | 14.4 VDC |
| Capacity (mAh) | 5000 mAh |
| Flashes Per Charge | 400 Flashes (Full Power) |
| Recharge Time | 5 Hours |
| General | |
|---|---|
| Display | LCD |
| Auto Dump | Yes |
| Fan Cooled | Yes |
| Dimensions | H: 5.5 x W: 7.5 x L: 10.5" / H: 14.0 x W: 19.0 x L: 26.7 cm |
| Weight | 4.6 lb / 2.1 kg |
| Packaging Info | |
|---|---|
| Package Weight | 15.6 lb |
| Box Dimensions (LxWxH) | 16.2 x 14.4 x 9.7" |
Phottix Indra500 reviews
Indra500 TTL Battery Powered Studio Light is rated
out of
5 by
32.
Rated 4 out of
5
by
swertz from
Power and portable
This is a great light to be able to take on location. It is very easy to set up and combined with the Odin II it works perfectly. I have to say that the ttl functions are average. Like anything with photography if you want to correct light you have to go all manual. It is very easy to control from the odin II, there is no need to go to the light after you have set it up. This is very convenient when on location to make adjustments as the light changes. My one disappointment is the HSS capabilities. I don't think that it produces the amount of light that I have seen on videos. It does work but it is not as powerful as I would have wanted it to be
Date published: 2016-06-21
Rated 1 out of
5
by
Stuart Townsley from
Loved it at first but buyer beware!
Worst flashes I have ever owned. Indra 500 TTL is 3 stops or more off on the Canon 5ds Manual control is next to impossible (it takes too long to fiddle with the tiny buttons and menus and your clients get annoyed.) . Customer service is non existant. In my opinion B&H should NOT sell a product that does not have a company behind it. I have a broken pack since July 4th emailed 2 times and NO response. I am turning to facebook for help that is ridiculous. PLEASE SOMEONE tell photix to get a phone number or respond to email support.
Date published: 2015-07-18
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Mark B from
Plenty of Power
I only have used this for one shoot. I had no time to test it out before the shoot but this thing was so easy to set up and use. I will definitely be buying another one. I took about 200 pictures and barely put a dent in the battery. One thing I have to say is that some have complained about color consistency issues. This has to be a camera issue. I did the shoot with my Nikon D800 and the color was spot on. I shot three locations with no issues. It was a nice change from having speed lights so close to the subjects. I was able to place the light far enough to get some nice wide angle shots with fill. The build quality seems to be very capable.
Date published: 2016-05-03
Rated 3 out of
5
by
Straight Shooter from
Very Good Product, Nonexistent Customer Servive
I bought two of these kits with plans to buy two more and the AC adapters. However, I have a small problem with one unit (I believe is a simple fix) but can't get a response from the available contacts listed on their website. It seems that this product isn't well supported in the U.S., which makes it a no go for me. If I don't hear something soon, I'll probably ditch the system and spend way more to go with Profoto. Darn shame because the Indra500 TTL is a pretty good unit for the money. One con, TTL is all over the place. When it's good, it's very good but it won't remain that way for the duration of your shoot. Manual might be your best bet for consistent exposures. NOTE: I did receive one response to my email enquiry asking if I purchased the unit in the US to which I replied in the affirmative. From that point on, I've recei no reply to another half-dozen emails.
Date published: 2015-08-30
Rated 3 out of
5
by
Bernard from Paris from
Great but...
I'm a pro photographer, shooting mostly outdoor portraits. I need HS Sync, TTL and great power. And I didn't want to spend a fortune in Profoto gear. The Odin system seems more reliable than the Pocket Wizards I used to use before, and the Indra system delivers. Accurate and steady exposure, TTL seems perfect, but there are two huge drawbacks : If you shoot above 1/8th to 1/4th, the head heats and halts in a safe / temp mode. All you have to do is switch it off and restart a few seconds later. But the real no-go with this Indra system is the HUGE variation of color temp... The lower the power, the cooler the Kelvins... It starts with a cyan/greenish tint (1/128th and below in TTL) and heats as the power increases. Then, in HSS, above 1/500s the color cast tends toward a reddish hue. The ONLY way to get an accurate and pure daylight color temp is to set it manually on the heat itself. Which ruins the purpose of remote setting with the Odin transceiver... Too bad ! Such an excellent system, sturdy and powerful... Too bad.
Date published: 2015-07-09
Rated 4 out of
5
by
Straight Shooter from
Customer Service Update
I finally got a response from Phottix, directing me to contact Mac Group a@was promptly returned and the situation resolved to my satisfaction. I will say, it shouldn't have been so difficult to get to the necessary information; perhaps that will be resolved in the future.Beyond that, my earlier review stands. This is a nice kit with a few issues in TTL exposure consistency. It can be worked around but for the money, I shouldn't have to. Otherwise, construction, features and general results are quite nice.
Date published: 2015-09-06
Rated 5 out of
5
by
nycapbarista from
So Far This Light Has Amazed
What I will use this for is for shooting in the mid-day sun for event photography, portraiture, and weddings. So far what I've used it for is a Senior Photo Session. I used it bare because I did not have a modifier to go with it at that time. If you buy this, take the time to figure out how to use it first, it's not as easy as studio strobes where you just turn a knob to increase or decrease the power. You really have to understand so much more. What is great about this is that if you couple it with a large softbox/brolly box or a large beauty dish you will get gorgeous light that does not create hotspots on the skin. I have used this with my Stratos II transmitters (on the senior photo shoot) and really what I could do with the Stratos is limited. Like others, I would recommend spending a couple hundred extra dollars and get the Odin transmitter. This light has the Phottix receivers built in (if you use them). This has a Bowen's mount which is good because it's a really easy on-off process. You don't have to unscrew anything to get it to come off; just slide the slider on the top of the light to unlock, and then twist the modifier and ease it off. This light comes with an opaque glass covering that goes over the flash tube. I believe this has something to do with the quality of the light that comes from it. I don't remove it. I was frustrated at first because I was not able to get my shutter speed above 320 without getting the under or over exposure bands but then I had to do a bit of research and figure out why. I figured it out. So, if you own this light and hate it, give it some more time and watch some videos online that talk about HSS. I did not know what it was when I first became interested in the light. I will include a few images that I have taken with the light. I'm still just learning how to use it as it's intended to be used, so I've just been practicing on some willing volunteers. If you have the money and need to have the ability to bring a light out in the field (could be a literal field) where there are no power outlets ... I recommend this. Do not get the other brands that are 1/3 the price. They will perform 1/3 as good or like in my experience, blow up on the first time using it. I love buying my things from B&H Photo because they have excellent customer service and honestly they have a really great business model. I have hassle-free service with B&H. They have competitive prices and very fast shipping.
Date published: 2015-07-24
Rated 3 out of
5
by
Anonymous from
A little disappointed
First let me say, I'm a fashion shooter who specializes in, primarily, location shoots, not the studio. My assessment is based on a week's catalog in Miami recently, though I could not thoroughly test the Indra 500 because of a malfunction with my Odin transmitter. (One of the spring-loaded pins in the Odin got stuck in a retracted position, so it would no longer fire the Indra from the camera. From the moment I unpacked the box, I was very impressed with the quality of the Indra and all it's components. The strobe itself has an aluminum body that imparts a solid feeling, though not overly heavy. You have a feeling of quality, not a cheap unit. The battery pack is far more compact than early photos lead me to believe, being approximately 8x6x2. On top of that, the kit comes with a very nice soft-sided, padded carrying case. Not something I use (I have Pelicans I use for travel) but much appreciated nonetheless. The LED model light is reasonably powerful (no, not like a 250w halogen), and at 9w, uses little of your battery power. (For location work, I never use a model light anyway.) There is also a thermostatically controlled fan which cuts on and off. It's a little on the noisy side, but not objectionable. Over the past few years, I've started to use micro pops of strobes for fill, rather than have my assistants trying to battle a flexifill or scrimjim in the wind. Or in the case of the streets of NYC, trying to reflect when there is no light to reflect. I was excited by the thought that the Indra might work well with the added benefit of TTL. On the subject of TTL, the Indra operate more like a Speedlite on steroids. It uses multiple strobe pops when operating in HSS, rather than the Pocket Wizard technique of flash duration (long-ish) and your shutter. As a result, in TTL mode, the Indra recycles relatively quickly at 1/250 and below, but starts to crawl as your shutter speed shortens. At 1/500, shooting five frames in about 2 seconds, it will not fire on an average of two. At 1/250, it will usually fire on all five frames. My disappointment is that, as I learned, was that HSS DOES NOT WORK in manual mode. You must shoot TTL. I found having to shoot TTL in bright light slowed my shooting considerably. I couldn't really shoot walking or movement with any real speed. Also, in tests, I found the strobe is really about 400ws, not 500ws. And the recycle is a little on the slow side compared to other strobes I've used with my pocket wizard and battery pack. I think the 10,000mAh battery will shave about 1 second off the recycle time, but it hasn't been introduced. I found an interesting quirk with the Indra/Odin and my Canon 1Dx. There are three ways you can dial down the power in TTL mode: 1) on the Indra, 2) on the Odin and 3) in the 1Dx External Speedlite control menu. The interesting part is that all three can be used in a compounded way. I found I usually had to set the Indra to about -2 or even -3 EV to keep from overexposing. From there I could dial down on the Odin and then on the 1Dx. My complaint with TTL has often been that at times I can't dial down enough, so this certainly alleviates that! It's unfortunate that the Odin malfunctioned after the first day. I would have liked to use it more extensively to give a better overview. So, the case is, I have to go with my short experience with Indra on location and some initial testing I did before hand. (My only other concern is that it's taken over a week to get an RMA number from the USA distributor for the Odin. What would happen if it was the strobe?) There's a lot to like about this strobe. Depending on how you use it, the recycle may be more than sufficient, as well as the capabilities. I feel the Indra exudes quality in it's basic design as well as construction. For my personal use, I'll have to wait for my next shoot to make a better evaluation.
Date published: 2015-04-03
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