Godox DE300 / Neewer DS300 Monolight Review

I would say 2013 and 2014 is the year of the light.  If you have been following my blog, you will notice that I have been very fond of the Godox/Cheetah speedlight and barebulb flash units.  Not only are they extremely portable, they are powerful units that can essentially replace my need for monolights while out on the field. However, in studio, rather in my condominium, I have found it rather difficult to compose my models and friends through the Electronic View Finder because of my preferred exposure settings. I have been extremely fond of the high key look and it requires the use of 3 to 4 lights to expose both my background and my subject.   In order to achieve this desired look, I have to choose an ISO, Aperture and Shutterspeed that will give me a completely black frame without the lights (only my external light source will be exposing the image and not the ambient light). Because the EVF gives you a preview of what the image will look like prior to pressing the shutter release, you get a nearly dark view. Thus framing and posing your model as you look through the view finder becomes somewhat challenging. 

Introducing the newest member of the 13th Floor Team - Ashley Pelico

I am extremely excited to announce the newest member of the 13th Floor team - Ashley Pelico.  I have done several projects with her in the past and you might even notice her from prior blog posts. Just recently I asked if she wanted to be our resident, go-to makeup artist and she said YES!  

If it isn't obvious, having a talented makeup artist on staff is a godsend.  Not only will she help existing clients feel much more confident while posing in front of the camera, it will help tremendously in post production.  I have always believed getting it right in camera is extremely important and the message applies to more than just exposure.  I would be lying if I said I knew anything about makeup and techniques on applying it, but I can tell you when I see a makeup artist execute a good look and a bad one.  I can say with confidence, Ashley is extremely talented.  The session we had this past weekend says it all.  

Did I mention that she is an amazing model as well? Join me in welcoming Ashley Pelico. 

So say we all, 
Dino

PS - All shots were taken with the Godox DE300 monolight as the key light with the Phottix Luna octabank.