Gear Reviews
Hands-on camera, lens, iPhone accessory, lighting, and editing software reviews by Ely Roberts. Browse the latest reviews below, or use the Reviews menu to explore a category.
Neewer Z3R Flash and QZ Transmitter Review
The Neewer Z3R combines the round-head flash design I already liked with a touchscreen interface.
The Neewer Z3R combines the round-head flash design I already liked with a touchscreen interface. In this walkthrough, I try the Canon version with the QZ-C transmitter and explain how the setup fits my portrait and wedding photography.
Originally published on YouTube Sep 14, 2026.
Touchscreen controls and magnetic modifiers
The round head accepts magnetic accessories, including the dome and color-correction filters shown in the video. The removable battery supports USB-C charging, and the screen can be locked to reduce accidental changes. I liked the straightforward power adjustments and the tactile dial on the transmitter.
An outdoor portrait example
For a senior portrait session near sunset, I used the flash off camera in a Bowens-style flash bracket with a large lantern modifier. The resulting light was a subtle addition to the scene, which suited the natural look I wanted. The video includes those example photographs.
How I use flash at weddings
I generally prefer manual power because I want predictable output from frame to frame. I adjust shutter speed, ISO, flash power, and distance together, depending on the room and ambient light. The sample settings in the video describe that situation; they are starting points rather than universal settings.
Early verdict and disclosure
I had purchased the previous Neewer model and already enjoyed using it. Neewer sent this Z3R for me to test. These are my initial impressions and a real portrait example, with further wedding use still ahead at the time of recording.
Watch on YouTube and view the original product links. Some shopping links in the original description may be affiliate links.
Flashpoint / Godox iT32 Review: A Detachable Magnetic Flash
The iT32 immediately appealed to me because the flash lifts off its magnetic camera base and can still fire off camera.
The iT32 immediately appealed to me because the flash lifts off its magnetic camera base and can still fire off camera. I bought one after seeing it in person, and this studio overview shows why I was excited to use it.
Originally published on YouTube Mar 13, 2026.
The magnetic base is the main attraction
The recessed magnetic connection felt secure in my hands. The base stays on the camera and acts as the trigger when the flash is detached. I demonstrated exposure compensation from the base and the convenience of switching between attached and handheld use.
A compact kit with useful modifiers
The package shown includes a stand foot, diffusion accessories, and warming gels. I can see it being useful for a little fill near sunset or a compact dance-floor setup. USB-C charging with the components attached is another convenient detail.
An early recommendation
I liked the size and flexibility, particularly for a kit I can keep in a small bag. This video is an initial overview rather than an endurance or radio-range test. Select the correct camera-system base, and verify compatibility before treating the modular design as interchangeable with your existing flash gear.
Watch on YouTube and view the original product links. Some shopping links in the original description may be affiliate links.
Godox X3 Pro Trigger Review for Canon
The Godox X3 Pro gave me a more convenient way to adjust my studio lights than the older trigger I had kept in my bag for years.
The Godox X3 Pro gave me a more convenient way to adjust my studio lights than the older trigger I had kept in my bag for years. This overview shows the Canon version in my headshot and product-photography workflow.
Originally published on YouTube Dec 3, 2025.
Fast control of separate lights
I organize lights into groups for the key and side lighting, then adjust them from the camera. The touchscreen makes changing power quick, while the side dial offers another control option. Switching groups off temporarily helps me judge each light’s contribution.
Useful everyday improvements
USB-C charging, screen locking, and automatic shutoff were welcome changes for me. I also liked being able to simplify the visible groups to match the setup I was actually using. The video walks through those controls without claiming to test every menu feature.
My experience and disclosure
I had already used the trigger for product work and appreciated adjusting lights without disturbing a carefully arranged subject. Godox supplied it for this overview. I did not own the intermediate generation, so this is not a complete generation-by-generation comparison. Choose the camera-system version that matches your setup.
Watch on YouTube and view the original product links. Some shopping links in the original description may be affiliate links.
Godox iT20 Compact TTL Flash Review
The Godox iT20 is a compact rechargeable TTL flash.
The Godox iT20 is a compact rechargeable TTL flash. I test its controls, magnetic modifiers, recycling, and practical limits on a small camera kit.
Originally published on YouTube Sep 28, 2025.
A small flash with useful accessories
The review covers the included diffuser and CTO filters, USB-C charging, and the controls. Choose the version that matches your camera system: the original description separates Canon, Fujifilm, and Sony models.
Watch for lens shadows
A low-mounted flash can cast a shadow when a lens blocks its light. I demonstrate the issue and discuss the Godox TR-F riser as a possible remedy. The size of your lens and your framing matter when judging this kind of compact flash.
See the performance test
The video includes a recycle test and a comparison with the iT22. Watch the practical examples before deciding whether a tiny direct flash is enough for your work.
Watch on YouTube and view the original product links. Some shopping links in the original description may be affiliate links.
SmallRig RF10C Review: Creative Patterns and Brightness Limits
The SmallRig RF10C is a small focusable LED light with colored output and projection patterns.
The SmallRig RF10C is a small focusable LED light with colored output and projection patterns. It is fun for portraits, provided you understand its brightness limits.
Originally published on YouTube Feb 25, 2025.
Patterns in a compact light
I demonstrate the focusing control, colored LEDs, and pattern inserts. Blue was my favorite color for contrast against skin tones. Changing the LED color can shift the pattern position, so I adjust the light again after a change.
Best in controlled light
This is not a powerful daylight light. I found it more useful indoors with low ambient light or at night. The sample portraits show what it can do when the surrounding light is controlled.
My buying advice
Watch the brightness demonstrations before buying it for a particular job. Its creative appeal is real, but the output needs to match your environment and working distance.
Watch on YouTube and view the original product links. Some shopping links in the original description may be affiliate links.
Godox and Flashpoint iM30 Mini Flash Review
The iM30 is a small manual flash that runs on two AAA batteries.
The iM30 is a small manual flash that runs on two AAA batteries. My review covers the fun of a compact flash alongside the controls and recycling compromises.
Originally published on YouTube Feb 7, 2025.
Small and adjustable
The flash offers seven output levels from 1/64 to full power. I demonstrate it on my Fujifilm X-T5 and discuss where a tiny direct flash can fit into casual photography.
What I did not like
The battery-door design was awkward for me, and startup and full-power recycling could be slow in my use. The video shows the wait between flashes rather than just quoting a specification.
My verdict
I see it as a fun, occasional-use accessory rather than my first choice for demanding work. The review also compares the experience with the smaller Reflx Lab flash and the larger flashes I use professionally.
Watch on YouTube and view the original product links. Some shopping links in the original description may be affiliate links.
Reflx Lab Mini Flash Review: Tiny Size, Real Trade-Offs
The Reflx Lab mini flash is small enough to disappear in a camera bag.
The Reflx Lab mini flash is small enough to disappear in a camera bag. I tested it with compact lenses and found both a fun direct-flash look and some limitations.
Originally published on YouTube Jan 17, 2025.
What I enjoyed
The simple switch and quick startup made the flash easy to grab for casual photographs. I show it alongside memory cards for scale and demonstrate it on small camera-and-lens combinations.
Lens shadows matter
A larger lens can block the light because the flash sits so low. My sample images show how that shadow changes with framing and focal length. A small pancake lens was a better match for the look I wanted.
Reliability and support
My first unit stopped working, and Reflx Lab sent a replacement after I contacted support. I include that experience in the review, along with the supplied charging-cable guidance.
Watch on YouTube and view the original product links. Some shopping links in the original description may be affiliate links.
Zhiyun Cinepeer C100 LED Light Review: Headshots and Creative Color
The Zhiyun Cinepeer C100 combines a tube-like shape with a panel-style light source.
The Zhiyun Cinepeer C100 combines a tube-like shape with a panel-style light source. I tested it for headshots and creative portrait lighting.
Originally published on YouTube Nov 20, 2024.
A flexible shape and modifiers
The review walks through the removable barn doors, diffusion panel, battery-powered design, and controls. I also use a smaller Zhiyun light to build a compact two-light setup. Zhiyun supplied the C100 for testing.
From simple headshots to color
The second part of the video shows a real portrait session, starting with straightforward headshots and then adding colored light and atmosphere. The examples make it easier to see how placement changes the look.
My experience
I enjoyed the light’s portability and the range of creative setups it allowed. The video demonstrates the output I actually used rather than assuming every job needs the light at full power.
Watch on YouTube and view the original product links. Some shopping links in the original description may be affiliate links.
Godox Litemons LP1200R RGB LED Panel Review
The Godox Litemons LP1200R became a useful LED panel in my studio and food photography work.
The Godox Litemons LP1200R became a useful LED panel in my studio and food photography work. This review shows its handling, power options, and light quality.
Originally published on YouTube Nov 20, 2024.
A panel for different jobs
I use the panel as a key or rim light and demonstrate the removable barn doors. I like the physical power switch and the ability to attach a V-mount battery directly for a cleaner portable setup.
See the light on a subject
The review includes a side-by-side demonstration with a Godox ML100Bi setup. The examples show how placement and modifiers change the result, which is more useful than judging a light only by its wattage.
Where it fits
For me, the panel is a practical way to add continuous or colored light to a compact setup. Watch the demonstration to assess whether its spread and output suit the portraits or products you photograph.
Watch on YouTube and view the original product links. Some shopping links in the original description may be affiliate links.