Photography enthusiasts often find themselves in situations where reliable lighting is essential. Whether capturing a breathtaking landscape at dawn or organizing gear after a wedding reception, the need for a dependable light source is clear. Recently, photographer and workshop instructor Alex Coleman shared insights on two compact and affordable flashlights that can significantly enhance any photographer’s kit: the Wuben G5 and Wuben PL01.
Essential Features of the Wuben G5
Coleman emphasizes that the Wuben G5 has become a key component of his photography gear. Compact and lightweight, it weighs only 52 grams and is about the size of a Zippo lighter. This makes it easy to carry in a camera bag or even clip onto a camera strap.
The G5 boasts a user-friendly interface, allowing for straightforward operation. A single click turns the light on, while a rotary dial enables seamless dimming from a soft 2-lumen moonlight mode to an impressive 400 lumens. For a quick burst of brightness, a double-click activates the turbo mode. Its physical design is particularly innovative, featuring a head that rotates 180 degrees and a strong magnet in the base, providing multiple hands-free lighting options.
Coleman has utilized the flashlight’s versatility in various scenarios, from lighting paths during hikes to illuminating gear compartments. Additionally, the G5 includes a secondary RGB light mode, which can be beneficial for preserving night vision or creating unique photography effects.
The Versatile Wuben PL01 Penlight
The Wuben PL01 serves a more specialized role in Coleman’s toolkit. Its elongated shape allows it to fit easily into pockets, making it an ideal choice for inspection tasks—such as checking lenses for dust. The PL01 features a high-quality light source with a color rendering index (CRI) of 90+, ensuring accurate color representation, which is critical in photography.
This penlight has a neutral beam at 5000K, avoiding the harsh tones often associated with cheaper flashlights. It also includes a turbo mode providing 650 lumens for quick illumination, although this setting is limited to about a minute. The PL01’s dual-fuel capability is a standout feature; it operates on a rechargeable 10880 battery and can also use two standard AAA batteries, which are widely available.
Both flashlights are designed to withstand tough conditions. The G5 and PL01 are rated IP68 for waterproofing and drop resistance, making them suitable for outdoor adventures.
While both models offer impressive features, there are some trade-offs. The G5’s battery is integrated and not user-replaceable, which can be a concern in extreme temperatures. The PL01’s rechargeable battery can be difficult to find in stores, although the AAA backup option mitigates this issue.
Why Flashlights Are a Must for Photographers
Adding a dedicated flashlight to a photography kit is a simple yet effective upgrade. Having a reliable light source that is not dependent on a phone’s battery can make a significant difference in various situations.
Coleman notes that the Wuben G5 and PL01 serve distinct but complementary purposes. The G5 is an excellent utility light, while the PL01 is ideal for inspections and close-up work. For their price, investing in both makes sense for anyone serious about photography.
As Coleman continues to teach workshops across the American Southwest, he encourages fellow photographers to consider the benefits of these affordable tools. With their robust features and reliability, the G5 and PL01 are poised to become essential companions for photographers everywhere.
