F&V HDR-300

£175 / $199 www.fvlighting.com The HDR-300 is a continuous ring light, so it shines with both stills and video. And shine it does, with a dazzling maximum brightness of 1950 Lux from 300 LEDs, all controlled by a step-less power dial.

The effect is a beautiful 65-degree beam of 5,600K daylight-balanced light, which all but eliminates unsightly shadows. A couple of magnetic filters are thrown in if you’d prefer more diffusion or a tungsten-balanced look.

Power comes from a mains input or a Sony NP-F series rechargeable battery pack. Unfortunately this isn’t included.

Superb light softness that’s great for stills and video.

No power source included; can’t vary each side’s output.

A great value and highly-versatile ring flash alternative.