Best Camera Light Bulbs for Photography and Videography

When I first started my photography and videography journey, one of the biggest challenges I faced wasn’t my camera settings, but rather the lighting. I remember struggling with harsh shadows and inaccurate colors, wondering why my shots didn’t look like the professional examples I admired. It took me a while to realize that the secret often lies in having the right light source, and specifically, the right camera light bulbs. You can have the best camera in the world, but without good lighting, your images and videos will always fall short.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	2Pack 135W Photography Light Bulb Dimmable Tricolor LED…	View on Amazon
	EMART Softbox Photography Lighting Kit, 20″x28″…	View on Amazon
	BEIYANG 2Pack 85W Photography Light Bulb for Softbox…	View on Amazon
	Light Bulb Security Camera 2 Packs, 5G&2.4GHz 2K Security…	View on Amazon
	NEEWER Basic Magnetic Handheld Light Wand, 360° Full RGB…	View on Amazon
	Skytex 1 Pcs 150W 5400K Color Temperature CFL Light Bulb,…	View on Amazon
	NEEWER Photography RGB LED Light Bulb 2 Pack, App Control…	View on Amazon

That’s why I’ve spent countless hours experimenting with different photography lighting setups, from full softbox kits to individual light bulbs. Choosing the right bulbs can feel overwhelming with all the technical jargon, but trust me, it makes a huge difference in the quality of your work. From product shots to portraiture, and even setting the mood for a video, the type of light bulb you use is absolutely critical. In this guide, I’m going to share my insights into some of the best camera light bulbs for photography and videography currently available, breaking down their features, pros, and cons to help you illuminate your creative vision effectively. We’ll look at a range of options, from versatile LED bulbs to comprehensive lighting kits, to help you find what works best for your specific needs and budget.

1. 2Pack 135W Photography Light Bulb Dimmable Tricolor LED

These 135W LED bulbs are a fantastic starting point for anyone looking to upgrade their photography lighting without breaking the bank. What immediately caught my attention was their versatility; having three adjustable modes (white, warm, and cool) means you’re not stuck with a single look. Whether I’m trying to achieve a cozy, warm glow for a portrait or a crisp, cool light for product photography, these bulbs adapt with ease. The convenience of adjusting both brightness and color temperature (from 2700K-6400K) via the included remote control is a game-changer, allowing for quick adjustments without constantly fiddling with your setup. Plus, their robust ABS material promises a long service life of over 20,000 hours, so you won’t be replacing them anytime soon. They fit any standard E27 socket, making them highly compatible with most existing light stands and softboxes.

• Three adjustable modes (white, warm, cool light)
• Adjustable color temperature (2700-6400K)
• Long service life (20000+ hours)
• Fits standard E27 socket
• Includes 2 bulbs and 2 remote controls

Pros:
– Highly versatile with adjustable color temperatures and brightness.
– Remote control makes adjustments quick and convenient.
– Good value for a 2-pack with high wattage equivalent.
– Durable construction promises longevity.
– Wide compatibility with E27 sockets.

Cons:
– Remote controls require separate batteries.
– Not a complete kit, so softboxes/stands need to be purchased separately.

Best for: Beginners or hobbyists seeking versatile, dimmable LED bulbs for studio and product photography, particularly those who already own softboxes or light stands.

User feedback summary: Users frequently praise the bulbs’ brightness and the flexibility offered by the remote control for adjusting color and intensity. They find them easy to set up and appreciate the noticeable improvement in their photos and videos, especially for portrait work and smaller studio setups.

2. EMART Softbox Photography Lighting Kit, 20″x28″

If you’re starting from scratch or want a comprehensive solution, the EMART Softbox Photography Lighting Kit is an excellent choice. This isn’t just a bulb; it’s a complete lighting studio in a box, which I find incredibly useful for a variety of shoots. The kit includes two 20″x28″ softboxes, two adjustable light stands, and two powerful 40W 6500K LED light bulbs (equivalent to 400W incandescent). The 6500K daylight balance is perfect for achieving natural-looking light, and with a CRI above 90, you can trust that your colors will be accurate. I particularly appreciate the upgraded softbox design with a silver reflective lining and internal baffle, which effectively maximizes soft light and eliminates harsh shadows – a huge win for flattering portraits and professional-looking product shots. The inclusion of velcro cable ties is a small but mighty detail that helps keep your workspace tidy and safe.

• Rich packaging content: 2 softboxes, 2 LED bulbs (40W, 6500K), 2 light stands, 2 rotatable heads, cable ties, tote bag.
• Velcro cable ties for cable management.
• Upgraded 20″x28″ softboxes with silver reflective lining and baffle.
• Powerful 40W 6500K LED bulbs (400W incandescent equivalent, 4000 lumens, CRI > 90).
• Multiple scene applications for diverse photography and videography needs.

Pros:
– Comprehensive kit – ready to use right out of the box.
– High-quality softboxes for even, soft light.
– Powerful and color-accurate LED bulbs (6500K, CRI > 90).
– Durable and stable light stands with rotatable heads.
– Excellent for various studio applications, from portraits to products.

Cons:
– Bulbs are not dimmable or color-adjustable (fixed 6500K).
– Larger footprint due to softboxes, less portable than individual bulbs.

Best for: Photographers and videographers who need a complete, ready-to-go studio lighting setup for consistent, soft daylight-balanced illumination.

User feedback summary: Many users highlight the kit’s ease of assembly and immediate impact on their photo and video quality. They praise the brightness and softness of the light, noting it’s perfect for YouTube videos, product photography, and professional-looking headshots. The carrying bag is also a popular convenience.

3. BEIYANG 2Pack 85W Photography Light Bulb for Softbox

The BEIYANG 85W LED bulbs offer a compelling blend of power and flexibility, making them another strong contender for dedicated photography lighting. What stands out here is the upgraded 85W LED design packed with 108 high-quality LED beads, which delivers a significantly brighter and clearer light compared to traditional softbox bulbs. This enhanced brightness is crucial when you need to really make your subject pop. Just like some other top contenders, these bulbs feature four adjustable light modes (white, warm, light warm, and cold), along with a color temperature range of 3000-6000K. This means you have great control over the mood and atmosphere of your shots. The inclusion of two remote controls ensures convenience, letting you adjust settings on the fly without interrupting your flow. They’re built for durability and a long lifespan, ensuring they’ll be a reliable part of your kit for many shoots to come.

• Upgraded 85W LED bulb with 108 high-quality LED beads for brighter, clearer light.
• Four adjustable light modes (white, warm, light warm, cold).
• Adjustable color temperature (3000-6000K).
• Long service life and less fragile construction.
• Suitable for various photography and videography scenarios.
• Package includes 2 bulbs and 2 remote controls.

Pros:
– Impressive brightness from the 85W LED design.
– Excellent flexibility with four color modes and adjustable temperature.
– Remote control adds significant convenience.
– Durable and built for a long operational life.
– Ideal for a wide range of photography styles.

Cons:
– Still requires separate softboxes/stands.
– The remote control may feel less premium to some users.

Best for: Content creators and photographers who need powerful, versatile, and color-adjustable LED bulbs to fit into their existing softbox or umbrella setups.

User feedback summary: Users are generally very impressed with the brightness these bulbs provide, often comparing them favorably to higher wattage incandescent equivalents. The ability to switch between color temperatures is highly valued for different shooting scenarios, and the remote controls are seen as a major convenience.

4. Light Bulb Security Camera 2 Packs, 5G&2.4GHz 2K Security

Now, this product is a bit of an outlier in an article about Best Camera Light Bulbs for Photography and Videography. Let’s be clear: this is a security camera, not a lighting solution for creative photo or video work. While it looks like a light bulb and screws into a standard E27/E26 socket, its primary function is surveillance. It boasts impressive features for a security camera, such as 2K HD clarity, full-color night vision, 360° panoramic view, motion tracking, and two-way audio. It even has a siren and bright light to deter intruders. It’s designed for monitoring your home, pets, or business, providing peace of mind with smart alerts and remote control via an app. It uses dual-band WiFi (5G & 2.4G) for reliable connectivity.

• Dual-Band WiFi (5G & 2.4G) for reliable connectivity.
• 2K HD Clarity & Full-Color Night Vision up to 33 feet.
• Two-Way Audio for real-time communication.
• Smart Alerts & Motion Tracking with siren and light deterrence.
• 360° Panoramic View (355° pan, 90° tilt) with remote control.
• Easy installation into E27/E26 socket.

Pros:
– Excellent features for home security and surveillance.
– High-resolution video and full-color night vision.
– Easy to install and integrates into existing light sockets.
– Two-way audio and motion alerts are very useful for security.

Cons:
– Not designed for photography or videography lighting. Its light output is for utility/security, not quality illumination for creative work.
– Lacks essential features for photo/video lighting like high CRI, adjustable color temperature for artistic purposes, or controlled diffusion.
– Its “light” function is secondary to its “camera” function.

Best for: Home security, pet monitoring, or as a general surveillance camera in areas where a discreet, easy-to-install camera is needed. Definitely NOT for photography or videography lighting purposes.

User feedback summary: Users are very satisfied with its performance as a security camera, praising its easy setup, clear image quality, and effective motion detection. They find the two-way audio and remote control features highly convenient for monitoring their homes. However, it’s important to reiterate that these reviews are from the perspective of security, not creative lighting.

5. NEEWER Basic Magnetic Handheld Light Wand, 360° Full RGB

While not a traditional “light bulb,” the NEEWER Basic Magnetic Handheld Light Wand is a fantastic portable lighting tool that offers incredible creative possibilities for photographers and videographers. This pocket-sized light wand is a true gem for on-the-go shooting or adding accents to your studio work. It’s incredibly small and lightweight, yet packs a punch with 96 high-performance LED beads, boasting a 97 CRI for excellent color accuracy. The magnetic design is a standout feature, allowing you to quickly attach it to metal surfaces for unique lighting angles. What truly sets it apart is its 360° full RGB range, letting you dial in virtually any color imaginable, along with bi-color CCT mode (2500K-8500K) and 20 special FX scenes (like lightning or party lights). This opens up a world of creative expression, from subtle mood lighting to dramatic effects. With a built-in rechargeable battery providing up to 2 hours of power at 100% brightness, it’s perfect for quick shoots or adding a splash of color wherever you need it.

• Pocket-sized, magnetic handheld light wand (10.8cm, 134g).
• 96 high-performance LED beads, 6W max power, 97 CRI.
• 360° Full RGB range, bi-color CCT mode (2500K-8500K), 20 FX scenes.
• Built-in 2500mAh rechargeable battery (2 hours at 100% brightness).
• 1/4″ threaded screw holes for tripod mounting.

Pros:
– Extremely portable and versatile for creative lighting.
– High CRI (97) ensures accurate color rendition.
– Full RGB and CCT modes offer immense creative control.
– Magnetic feature allows for easy, unique mounting options.
– Long-lasting built-in rechargeable battery.

Cons:
– Not a traditional “bulb” and doesn’t fit E27 sockets.
– Lower power output compared to larger studio lights (best used close to subject).
– Requires a separate wall charger (USB cable included).

Best for: Portrait photographers, videographers, vloggers, and content creators looking for a portable, creative, and accent lighting solution with RGB capabilities for unique effects and on-the-go shoots.

User feedback summary: Users rave about its portability and the creative freedom it offers with its RGB and FX modes. They particularly love the magnetic attachment for quick setups and its usefulness for adding highlights or specific color accents to their photos and videos. The high CRI is also frequently mentioned as a benefit for color accuracy.

6. Skytex 1 Pcs 150W 5400K Color Temperature CFL Light Bulb

For those who prefer a more traditional studio lighting approach and are looking for powerful daylight-balanced bulbs, the Skytex 150W 5400K CFL bulb is a solid option. This bulb provides a substantial 150W equivalent of continuous light, ensuring your subjects are well-illuminated. The 5400K color temperature is designed to mimic natural daylight, which I find incredibly useful for consistent color rendition, especially when mixing with natural window light or aiming for a neutral look. While it’s a CFL bulb, it still boasts an impressive energy-saving capability (80%) and a long usage lifetime of 8000 hours, making it an economical choice in the long run. It’s designed to fit any standard E27 socket, so it’s compatible with most softboxes, reflectors, and umbrella holders. The compact size, despite its high wattage, is also a plus for easier storage and transport.

• 150W 5400K daylight spiral CFL light bulb.
• 80% energy saving compared to incandescent, 8000-hour usage life.
• E27 standard socket compatibility.
• Compact size: 9.5 inches length, 3 inches diameter.
• Suitable for various photography, studio, and video lighting.
• Double-layer foam packaging for safe transport.

Pros:
– Very powerful light output (150W equivalent).
– Consistent 5400K daylight color temperature is great for natural looks.
– Energy-efficient with a long lifespan for a CFL.
– Widely compatible with E27 sockets and existing studio equipment.
– Good value for a high-wattage bulb.

Cons:
– CFLs can be fragile and generate more heat than LEDs.
– Not dimmable or color-adjustable (fixed 5400K).
– Slower to reach full brightness compared to LEDs.
– Contains mercury, requiring careful disposal.

Best for: Studio photographers and videographers who need a powerful, consistent daylight-balanced light source and prefer the traditional “hot light” feel for their setups.

User feedback summary: Users often highlight the significant brightness boost this bulb provides to their softbox setups, making it easier to achieve well-exposed photos. The consistent 5400K color is appreciated for its natural appearance, and many find it a cost-effective solution for continuous studio lighting.

7. NEEWER Photography RGB LED Light Bulb 2 Pack, App Control

The NEEWER Photography RGB LED Light Bulbs (2-pack) are a fantastic option for photographers and videographers who want to add a splash of color and dynamic lighting to their shoots, all with the convenience of smart control. These are not your average white light bulbs; they offer full RGB color capabilities, meaning you can dial in virtually any hue imaginable to set a specific mood or create artistic effects. The real magic happens with the app control, which allows for seamless adjustment of color, brightness, and even specific lighting modes directly from your smartphone. This eliminates the need for physical remotes and gives you incredible precision. Being standard E27 screw-in bulbs, they are easily integrated into existing softboxes or lamp holders, making them incredibly versatile for both studio and home setups. They are perfect for product photography where color accents are key, or for videographers looking to create engaging background washes.

• Full RGB color capabilities for creative lighting.
• Convenient app control for color, brightness, and modes.
• Standard E27 screw-in base for wide compatibility.
• LED technology ensures energy efficiency and long lifespan.
• Comes as a 2-pack for dual lighting setups.

Pros:
– Offers a full spectrum of RGB colors for creative and mood lighting.
– App control provides precise and convenient adjustments.
– Standard E27 fitting makes them easy to integrate into existing gear.
– Energy-efficient LED design with a long lifespan.
– Great for adding color accents or background washes in photo and video.

Cons:
– May not be as bright as dedicated, high-wattage white-only studio bulbs.
– App connectivity can sometimes be finicky for some users.
– Primarily focused on color effects rather than raw, powerful white light.

Best for: Creative photographers and videographers, content creators, and those who want to add dynamic color washes, background lighting, or special effects to their shots, especially controlled via a smartphone app.

User feedback summary: Users highly praise the vibrant color output and the intuitive app control, finding it incredibly useful for setting specific moods and creating unique looks. They enjoy the flexibility for both product photography and video backgrounds, noting the convenience of adjusting settings without being directly next to the lights.

Helpful Comparison Insights: Choosing Your Camera Light Bulbs

Navigating the world of camera light bulbs for photography and videography means understanding the different types and features available. Here’s how these products stack up and what to consider:

LED vs. CFL Technology:
Many of the bulbs reviewed here are LED (Light Emitting Diode), like the 2Pack 135W Tricolor LED, BEIYANG 85W, and NEEWER RGB bulbs. LEDs are generally more energy-efficient, produce less heat, have a significantly longer lifespan, and often offer instant full brightness. They are also more robust and less prone to breaking. The Skytex 150W is a CFL (Compact Fluorescent Lamp). CFLs can offer high light output for their wattage equivalent and are also energy-saving compared to old incandescent bulbs, but they tend to be more fragile, generate more heat, and may have a slight warm-up time to reach full brightness. For most modern photography and videography setups, LEDs are generally the preferred choice due to their versatility, durability, and cool operation.

Color Temperature Flexibility:
This is a huge factor! Bulbs with adjustable color temperature (like the 2Pack 135W, BEIYANG 85W, and NEEWER Light Wand/RGB Bulbs) give you immense creative control. You can switch from warm (around 2700-3200K) for cozy portraits to cool daylight (5500-6500K) for crisp product shots. The EMART kit and Skytex CFL are fixed at 6500K and 5400K respectively, offering consistent daylight but no variability. If you shoot in diverse environments or want to match ambient light, flexibility in color temperature is key.

Brightness and Wattage:
Don’t get too caught up in wattage numbers alone. LED wattage isn’t directly comparable to incandescent or CFL wattage in terms of light output (lumens). The 2Pack 135W LED, BEIYANG 85W LED, and Skytex 150W CFL all claim high equivalent outputs, and they generally deliver ample light for small to medium setups. Consider if you need a lot of raw power for larger spaces or if you’ll primarily be using them close to your subject. Higher lumens generally mean more flexibility to light larger areas or use higher F-stops.

Kit vs. Bulb Only:
The EMART kit is a complete package, including softboxes and stands. This is an excellent choice for beginners or anyone building a studio from scratch, offering a cohesive, soft lighting solution. Most other bulbs (2Pack 135W, BEIYANG 85W, Skytex 150W, NEEWER RGB) are just the bulbs themselves, meaning you’ll need to supply your own softboxes, stands, and E27 sockets. The NEEWER Light Wand is a self-contained, portable unit. Your choice depends on whether you have existing equipment or need a full setup.

Portability and Form Factor:
If you’re shooting on location or need highly versatile accent lighting, the NEEWER Basic Magnetic Handheld Light Wand is a fantastic, portable option. Its magnetic attachment and built-in battery make it incredibly adaptable. Traditional E27 bulbs are generally less portable as they require stands and power, but they are great for consistent studio setups.

Special Features (RGB, App Control, Remote):
For creative effects, RGB capabilities (NEEWER Light Wand, NEEWER RGB Bulbs) open up a world of colorful lighting. App control (NEEWER RGB Bulbs) and remote controls (2Pack 135W, BEIYANG 85W) offer immense convenience, letting you adjust settings without moving. The security camera (product #4) is clearly out of scope for photography lighting, but it highlights that not all “light bulbs” are for creative illumination.

Ultimately, your best choice among these camera light bulbs for photography and videography will depend on your specific needs: do you prioritize raw power, color flexibility, portability, or a complete kit?

Final Verdict

After exploring these diverse options, it’s clear that the “best” camera light bulb for photography and videography isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. My recommendation truly hinges on what kind of creative work you do and what your current gear setup looks like.

For those just starting out or looking for a comprehensive, no-fuss solution, the EMART Softbox Photography Lighting Kit is a stellar choice. It delivers quality, soft, daylight-balanced light right out of the box, making it perfect for setting up a mini-studio for portraits or product photography.

If you already have softboxes or light stands and want to upgrade your bulbs for maximum versatility and control, the 2Pack 135W Photography Light Bulb Dimmable Tricolor LED or the BEIYANG 2Pack 85W Photography Light Bulb are excellent investments. Their adjustable color temperatures and dimming capabilities, along with remote controls, offer incredible flexibility for various shooting scenarios. The NEEWER RGB LED Light Bulbs (App Control) take this flexibility to the next level with full color control for creative lighting.

For the on-the-go creative or someone looking for accent and effect lighting, the NEEWER Basic Magnetic Handheld Light Wand is an absolute must-have. Its portability, RGB features, and magnetic design open up unique lighting possibilities that traditional bulbs can’t match.

And finally, for consistent, high-power daylight output in a more traditional CFL format, the Skytex 1 Pcs 150W 5400K CFL Light Bulb is a solid, economical choice, provided you’re okay with its limitations in adjustability and heat generation.

Remember, product #4, the Light Bulb Security Camera, is explicitly not for photography or videography lighting. Its inclusion in the list serves as a reminder to always check the intended purpose of a product, even if it has “light bulb” in its name.

Ultimately, investing in quality camera light bulbs for photography and videography will dramatically improve your output. Prioritize what’s most important for your workflow – be it color accuracy, power, portability, or creative flexibility – and you’ll find the perfect illumination for your projects.

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: What’s the ideal color temperature for photography and videography?
A1: The “ideal” color temperature often depends on the desired mood and ambient lighting. For a natural, clean look, daylight-balanced bulbs (around 5500K-6500K) are typically preferred as they mimic natural midday sun. Many photographers use this as a standard to avoid color casts. However, warmer tones (2700K-3200K) are great for creating a cozy or intimate atmosphere, while cooler tones can add a dramatic or clean feel. Versatile camera light bulbs that allow adjustment, like the 2Pack 135W Tricolor LED, are highly recommended.

Q2: Should I choose LED or CFL camera light bulbs for my setup?
A2: For most modern photography and videography setups, LED camera light bulbs are generally recommended over CFLs. LEDs offer several advantages: they’re more energy-efficient, produce less heat, have a much longer lifespan, are more durable, and often provide instant full brightness. While CFLs like the Skytex 150W can be powerful and cost-effective, their fragility, heat output, and slower warm-up times make LEDs a more convenient and versatile option in the long run.

Q3: What does CRI mean, and why is it important for photography lighting?
A3: CRI stands for Color Rendering Index. It’s a measure of how accurately a light source reveals the true colors of objects compared to a natural light source (like the sun). A higher CRI (ideally 90 or above) means the light source will render colors more faithfully and vibrantly. For photography and videography, a high CRI is crucial because it ensures that the colors in your photos and videos appear as they do in real life, without unwanted shifts or dullness. The EMART kit, for example, boasts a CRI above 90, which is excellent for professional results.

Q4: Do I need dimmable light bulbs for photography?
A4: Yes, dimmable light bulbs are incredibly beneficial for photography and videography! The ability to adjust the brightness allows you to fine-tune your lighting setup to control exposure, create different lighting ratios, and prevent overexposure or harsh shadows without having to move your lights around. Products like the 2Pack 135W Photography Light Bulb offer dimming features that give you much more creative control over your final image or video.

Q5: Can I use regular household bulbs for photography?
A5: While you can technically use regular household bulbs, it’s generally not recommended for quality photography or videography. Household bulbs typically have a low CRI, meaning they won’t render colors accurately, leading to undesirable color casts in your images. They also often have inconsistent brightness, aren’t dimmable, and have fixed color temperatures (usually warm white) that are not suitable for professional-looking results. Dedicated camera light bulbs are specifically designed to meet the demands of creative lighting.

Q6: What wattage do I need for my photography light bulbs?
A6: The wattage you need depends on several factors: the size of your shooting area, how many lights you’re using, and the desired brightness. For LEDs, focus more on lumen output or “incandescent equivalent wattage” rather than actual wattage, as LEDs are very efficient. For a small studio or product photography, 85W-135W equivalent LED camera light bulbs (like the ones reviewed) often provide plenty of light, especially when used with softboxes. For larger spaces or more powerful effects, you might consider multiple lights or higher output options.

Q7: How important is remote or app control for camera light bulbs?
A7: Remote or app control significantly enhances convenience and workflow, especially in a studio setting. Being able to adjust brightness, color temperature, or even RGB colors without physically touching each light saves time and allows for quicker, more precise adjustments. This is particularly useful when your lights are set up high or are part of a complex arrangement. Options like the BEIYANG and NEEWER RGB light bulbs highlight the benefits of this modern control.