In a short answer - it's not worth it in 2025 - get the newer one - The Aputure 1200x which is more expensive but has better features.
We have owned our Aputure 600D since 2022 and in the last couple of years I've really appreciated its quality. Many gaffers and camera operators have found themselves moving into the Aputure ecosystem. Particularly for their widely adopted hard lights.
I terms of bang for buck - I did alot of research and cam to the conclusion that is light would be an ideal addition to my video productions. Two years later I think it was a great decision. But should you buy one, maybe look at the Aputure 1200X and decide if you need the extra power.
I love this light to balance out the scene - I really don't like blown out windows. I want to expose the subject and background better. Personally I have one job a month in Edinburgh that requires putting our talent in front of a large victorian window, and having the power to compete with the bright outdoor light is very helpful. Once we shine the light through a softbox it invariable losses a couple of stops, but it means not having to ND the windows - which would be a colossal pain!
The light is weather sealed and I've used it outside with a Battery pack (the Vlocks really cost too much) so I'd recommend using a Vtoman 1500W portable power station
I mostly use this light with softboxes to diffuse the lights, and spread it out evenly. Sometimes I'll bounce it off the ceiling to increase the ambient light of the room.
Lights, Camera Scotland! Offer a 600D at £90 / day (ex vat) with some options -
Aputure light dome 150cm - £20 / day
Aputure F10 Fresnel lens and Barndoors - £20 / day
Aputure 35″ round softbox (x2 available) - £10 / day
Aputure Mini 2 softbox 21.4″ round softbox - £10 / day
Aputure Lantern softbox - £10 / day
Aputure Spotlight mount 19° lens - £30 / day
Aputure Spotlight mount 36° lens - £30 / day
Vtoman 1500W portable power station - £40 / day
I often have multiple location over the course of the day, and while sometimes a couple of simple 1x1 light panels are the way to go, if I have just a bit more set up time I would sooner bring out the 600D. I used our 600D to light Gerri Halliwell for a shoot for Dior and it worked great. I do find I am often using it at the top end of it's capacity.
The 1200X is just about to come out, and iI expect we will purchase on of those shortly too...
Commentaires