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I’m impressed by the Lume Cube Panel Mini, a very versatile LED light just released by Lume Cube. As a professional photographer currently shooting video as well as stills, the need for portable—and powerful—adjustable lighting is imperative. Having to move quickly and capture the moment without a long setup time can mean the difference between a brilliant image and no shot at all.

For me, the strength of the Lume Cube Panel Mini is how easy it is to use. The adjustment settings from 3200k to 5000k allows you to cover the temperature spectrum with light, also you can adjust from 0-100% brightness, an impressive degree of flexibility. With a warm temperature setting, you can give your subjects a nice, even, warm light glow.

This light comes with a camera shoe mount, a diffuser, and USB cable charger. The camera shoe mount works with a tripod as well, and an optional suction attachment allows the light to adhere solidly to your computer without fuss or damage.

I like this light at close range; once you move away from the subject, it can drop off very quickly. When shooting with a DSLR, I found about 50 feet from the subject to be maximum range—any further from your subject, and you’ll probably need an additional lighting source. When video conferencing, mounted on or above the computer is best.

For the phone, I dial it down a bit, because it is more sensitive at close range, but that’s simple. When I say “dial” I mean it literally: instead of a button that you push, praying the metre stops where you need it, the adjustments are on a scrolling wheel, ensuring both speed and accuracy. The Panel Mini evenly lights a face, and the silicone diffuser adds even more softness and does away with unwanted shadows.

The versatility of the light is obvious, and in our current world of virtual conferencing and video presentations, it works beautifully. With a little exploration of its capacity, it’s a must-have in today’s well-documented world.

—Ana Gibert

Billboard Award-winning photographer Ana Gibert has shot virtually all important music festivals (SXSW, Coachella, Bonaroo, Folk Alliance International, BottleRock, Americana, Rock in Rio, etc.) for major music magazines, and has documented a transatlantic crossing by sailboat. With live music currently on hold, Gibert is setting up virtual wine tasting seminars in the Napa Valley, California.