Best Photographic Lighting Booms & Stands in 2022

Last update: November 24, 2022

Are boom arms necessary?

Boom arms are not necessary, but they can make your life a lot easier. They allow you to position your microphone closer to your mouth without having to hold it, and they can also help reduce noise from other sources in the room. If you're recording audio for video, they can be an invaluable tool.

How many lighting positions are there?

In stage lighting, there are typically four different types of positions that lights can be placed in. These are known as front, back, side, and top. Front lighting is placed in front of the performer and is used to illuminate them from the audience’s perspective. Back lighting is placed behind the performer and is used to create a silhouette effect or to highlight a certain feature. Side lighting is placed to the side of the performer and is used to create depth and dimension. Top lighting is placed above the performer and is used to create a downward lighting effect.

How much should a boom arm cost?

There is a wide range in prices for boom arms, depending on the quality and features. Lower end boom arms can cost around $100, while higher end models can cost upwards of $1,000. Ultimately, the price of a boom arm depends on the needs of the musician.

What are lighting stands called?

Lighting stands are also called lighting trees or trusses. They are used to support stage lights. The height of the stand depends on the height of the ceiling.


Neewer PRO 9 Feet / 260cm Heavy Duty Aluminum Alloy Photography Photo Studio Light Stands Kit for Video, Portrait and Photography Lighting (2 Pieces) Review:


I was astonished by how sturdy these stands are for the price. With the exception of the locking handles, which are made of hard plastic, the construction is largely made of aluminum. All of the connection points on the base are rivets instead of bolts, which I believe makes the base more solid. I'll have to wait and see if the rivets become sloppy and loose over time and need to be replaced with bolts. However, they are fine as new.I actually received them, opened the box, and then sped straight to a location shoot to use them. They did a good job. They did not slip or move at all while supporting the weight of my lights and umbrellas. I got the height I sought from them. (However, I'm not sure how they arrived at the "9 Feet" in the product name; if you add together all the other length measurements they give, they come out to 8.5 feet. Perhaps they simply rounded up.) The only "problem" I had with them was that my S-type Speedlite Bracket wouldn't fit properly when I tried to attach it to them. The spigot's protective plastic lid was too broad to allow the bracket to fully descend onto the post. The issue was resolved by taking the caps off.At $55 for two stands, they are a decent value overall.Oh, and before I forget, these stands do include a spring buffer in the tubes to prevent hand pinching when you lower them. But do not imagine that you can just loosen the locks and let everything tumble to the ground. Everything will bottom out because the springs aren't strong enough.a more recent upgradeThese stands have seen a lot of use over the past year, and I'm happy to say that they've performed admirably. For my many studio lights and accessories, they continue to provide as a solid foundation. It turned out that my worries about the legs' rivets holding up were misplaced. These stands are still very highly recommended.



Fovitec - 1x 7'6" Photography & Video Light Stand Kit - [For Lights, Reflectors, & Modifiers][Collapsible][Spring Cushioned][Carrying Bag Included] Review:


You can't top these products' price points. 30 to 40 other people will be at one stand. I purchased this pack for my VIVE setup because the area I am at prevents me from permanently mounting my lighthouses. These devices were prompt in their delivery and easy to set up. I was concerned about the bases' and ball mounts' quality, therefore I was incredibly surprised to learn that both are of excellent quality. They are somewhat heavy, which is a sign of quality, but fear not—they are light and barely perceptible to carry. I was concerned that they might topple over on their own, but a little common sense with the bases, making sure they are dispersed as you deploy them higher, keeps them moving at all. It is quite simple to stretch because to the additional springs they have to help pop out the grip points, and you won't feel like you're always pressing it back in and tightening it down. To any VIVE owners out there, I'll offer a suggestion.I literally have only two things to say negative things about the firm. Reduce the bag's size because there is still a lot of empty room even when both units are in the carry case. The possibility of goods rubbing on the poles exists because it is not a hard cover. Alternatively



Neewer Pro 100% Metal Max Height 10ft/305cm Adjustable Reflector Stand with 4ft/120cm Holding Arm and 2 Pieces Grip Head for Photography Studio Video Reflector, Monolight and Other Equipment Review:


I've been utilizing sturdy light supports for my off-camera strobe work for many years. While generally stable enough, there are some situations—like when I'm using my strobe outside—where things can become unstable. In an effort to give my outdoor setup greater stability, I eventually made the tough decision to bite the bullet and purchase a C-stand. Wow, this thing is well-built and heavy when it first arrives! Even in a boom configuration, it is rock-steady. With the boom arm fully extended, I can put a Paul Buff White Lightning strobe with a 22-inch beauty dish attached, and it is rock-solid, with hardly any flex or wobble. The only restrictions are that you must purchase a "baby pin" to place in the boom stand's second knuckle. It increases the adaptability. And to ensure that everything stays balanced, be sure to get a set of sandbags to place on the tall, long leg. You are now ready! Since it's so hefty, I'll have to get used to carrying it about on location, but it's worth it!



Neewer Extension Grip Arm Boom Arm with 2 Pieces Grip Heads - 40 inches/101.6 centimeters Aluminum Alloy Construction for Light Stand,Reflector and Other Equipment for Studio Video Photography(Silver) Review:


My father gave me a pretty excellent tripod as a gift. I occasionally came upon this amazing arm that could be attached to the tripod's main pole. I'm currently in a tight spot, so this will allow me to save money to get another C-stand. Two collets are present on this clip arm to prevent it from collapsing. Additionally, there is no issue with using it to support the umbrellas and studio lights. Highly suggested.



AmazonBasics Aluminum Light Photography Tripod Stand with Case - Pack of 2, 2.8 - 6.7 Feet, Black Review:


Although these stands aren't "professional quality," I still find a lot of uses for them as a professional photographer and videographer when I need to put auxiliary equipment in a tight space or out of the way.I've clipped audio mics on the post, gopro cameras on the post, put strobes on top (1/4-20 threaded post is typical), and pretty much any little piece of equipment that needs some support.On the lower part, there is a lovely white line that shows exactly where the legs should be placed for best stability.QUIET - The legs glide into place and are secured without making any noise from metal on metal. Through plastic grommets or sleeves, which likewise generate no distracting noise, the parts move up and down. When opened or closed, the locks don't emit a noticeable "click".HOLDS POSITION - There is no slippage or drifting after the vertical shafts are locked into position.BLACK IS GREAT - Since black does not reflect light, attract attention, or show up in reflective surfaces, black is the greatest color for light stands like these.FIRM TOP THREADED POST - A few of the other budget stands I own have a little "play" in the top metal post, which is also threaded on top with a 1/4-inch-wide thread. There is absolutely no wiggle to this; it is solidly in place.I have to admit that this is the BEST light stand I could find anywhere for this price.TALL - As long as no one is seven feet tall, you may mount a GoPro or other small video camera on this to capture the action without having to worry about someone standing directly in front of it.Do I suggest it? Definitely, without a doubt! Despite how wonderful the provided zippered bags are, I just throw them away.Do you require assistance with your tiny umbrella, softbox, or auxiliary equipment? No need to search more; I'm content.Pose that LED Light or get a microphone over the crowd. There are more uses than I can list here.I'm using SmallRig clamps in the pictures; they make excellent additions to these stands.



Neewer 75"/6 Feet/190CM Photography Light Stands for Relfectors, Softboxes, Lights, Umbrellas, Backgrounds Review:


I was a little apprehensive to test a new brand, but recently I started using a lot of Neewer products, and for the most part they constantly deliver high performance for their affordable pricing.I wasn't sure what to anticipate when I bought this light stand because it was my first, but I'm generally pleased with the quality. Making it a little bit simpler to keep tipping over in windy situations would be the only change I could think of. It's like a gigantic sail with the larger Neewer octagon softbox I got for it. The next time I take it outside on a grassy field, I'll probably use tent pegs instead of dragging around sand bags to weigh it down.This position is still excellent. I just purchased the 7-foot model.



Manfrotto 196B-2 143BKT 2-Section Single Articulated Arm with Camera Bracket (Black) Review:


A little pricey, however you save some money because no ball head is needed. Rock solid, bombproof quality from Manfrotto! To conduct tabletop video work, I got an inexpensive Chinese gooseneck with a clamp. Even holding my relatively light Canon M50 would cause it to slump, and the screw attachment site appeared dubious. On that piece of crap, a GoPro-style camera might have worked, but that's about it.When placed to the edge of the table, this arm, though short, is large enough to capture an overhead view of someone working on the surface. While doing so, it won't obscure your view. I wanted that, that's what.This Manfrotto product is of the highest caliber. The joints of the arms are very adjustable and fasten down with excellent clamps. The arms are made of heavy-duty tubing. With a big pad to fit the bottom of your camera, a well machined screw to attach to your tripod mount, and a very comfortable, knurled knob to tighten it down, the camera attachment point is very well crafted. I have a natural tendency to trust this quality. I wouldn't think twice about using a pricey Mirrorless setup on this.NOTE: To attach this to a table top—or in my case, a shelf above eye level—you need a Manfrotto Super Clamp. The Super Clamp is fantastic and won't let you down. This may be attached with the clamp to tubing, table tops, or anything else that fits between the jaws, and it gives you a lot of confidence.These come together to create a fantastically flexible, rock-solid framework for my video gear. When you receive this, you won't be let down. Avoid being frugal like I was and wasting money on a cheap Chinese piece of crap! Take this!



Neewer 30"-75"/76-190cm Swivel Head Aluminum Alloy 1/4" Thread Mount Boom Arm Holder with Sandbag for Reflector,LED Video Light,Strobe Light,Monolight and Other Photographic Equipment Review:


For the price, the arm is nice. A Yongnuo 468ii and a Neewer 32in Octo are what I use mine for. Very well done. It was made to hold reflectors, so I probably wouldn't put much more weight to it, but I believe that's definitely a benefit. I wouldn't extend it all the way out if you're using it to hold lighting. I always leave in the shortest arm.1) There is a good grip head. I don't see it being a major deal as long as you're cautious not to overtighten, but if you crank it, the teeth will slip and this could gradually wear them down. Although this plastic skull appears to be on par with more expensive ones when comparing the quality of the plastic to other plastic heads.2) It somewhat bowed when I placed my light and modulator on it and the sandbag on the other end. Despite the fact that I've had this setup for a long, nothing has changed for the worse. Once more, this is not intended for my use. I can imagine it being more than strong with a reflector.



AmazonBasics Aluminum Light Photography Tripod Stand with Case - 2.8 - 6.7 Feet, Black Review:


Although these stands aren't "professional quality," I still find a lot of uses for them as a professional photographer and videographer when I need to put auxiliary equipment in a tight space or out of the way.I've clipped audio mics on the post, gopro cameras on the post, put strobes on top (1/4-20 threaded post is typical), and pretty much any little piece of equipment that needs some support.On the lower part, there is a lovely white line that shows exactly where the legs should be placed for best stability.QUIET - The legs glide into place and are secured without making any noise from metal on metal. Through plastic grommets or sleeves, which likewise generate no distracting noise, the parts move up and down. When opened or closed, the locks don't emit a noticeable "click".HOLDS POSITION - There is no slippage or drifting after the vertical shafts are locked into position.BLACK IS GREAT - Since black does not reflect light, attract attention, or show up in reflective surfaces, black is the greatest color for light stands like these.FIRM TOP THREADED POST - A few of the other budget stands I own have a little "play" in the top metal post, which is also threaded on top with a 1/4-inch-wide thread. There is absolutely no wiggle to this; it is solidly in place.I have to admit that this is the BEST light stand I could find anywhere for this price.TALL - As long as no one is seven feet tall, you may mount a GoPro or other small video camera on this to capture the action without having to worry about someone standing directly in front of it.Do I suggest it? Definitely, without a doubt! Despite how wonderful the provided zippered bags are, I just throw them away.Do you require assistance with your tiny umbrella, softbox, or auxiliary equipment? No need to search more; I'm content.Pose that LED Light or get a microphone over the crowd. There are more uses than I can list here.I'm using SmallRig clamps in the pictures; they make excellent additions to these stands.



Evanto Camera Table Top Monopod Stand Tripod Support Rig with Overhead Phone Mount for YouTube Tutorials, Cake and Cookies Decorating Review:


It's perfect for what I want. In order to prevent camera shake, I required someone or anything (other than myself) to hold my phone firmly above my jewellery. Once you press the camera's shutter, it's a little wobbly by itself, but if you use the timer to delay the real shot for 10 seconds, it's great! Another major benefit is how easily changeable it is.


What are the 4 types of lighting photography?

There are four main types of lighting in photography: natural light, artificial light, diffused light, and reflected light. Natural light is the sun’s light. It is the most common type of light used in photography and is the easiest to work with. Artificial light is light that is created by man, such as light bulbs and flashlights. Diffused light is light that has been scattered or reflected, such as light from a cloud or a reflector. Reflected light is light that has been bounced off of a surface, such as a mirror or a piece of

What are the basic lighting terms?

Lighting is one of the most important aspects of photography and videography. It can make or break a shot. That’s why it’s important to know the basic lighting terms. The three main types of lighting are natural, artificial, and studio. Natural lighting is sunlight or moonlight. Artificial lighting is man-made, like lamps and flashlights. Studio lighting is a mix of both natural and artificial lighting, often used in professional photography studios. Lighting can be described in terms of its quality, quantity, and color. The quality of light

What are the benefits of a boom arm?

A boom arm is a great way to get professional looking photos without having to invest in a lot of expensive equipment. They are perfect for taking photos of large groups or for getting close up shots of small objects. Boom arms are also very versatile and can be used in a variety of different ways.

What are the stages of lighting?

There are three main stages of lighting: ambient, task, and accent. Ambient lighting is general or background lighting that illuminates a space. Task lighting is lighting that is used to perform specific tasks, such as reading or cooking. Accent lighting is used to highlight certain features or objects in a space.

What boom arm is the best?

There are many different types of boom arms available on the market, so it can be difficult to determine which one is the best. However, some factors to consider when choosing a boom arm include the weight and size of the microphone, the length of the boom arm, and the type of mount. Additionally, it is important to consider the intended use of the boom arm to ensure that it will be compatible with the equipment being used.

What equipment do boom operators need?

Boom operators need a few key pieces of equipment to do their job properly. They need a boom pole, which is a long pole that they use to hold the microphone close to the sound source. They also need a shock mount, which is a device that attaches the microphone to the boom pole and helps to reduce vibrations. Finally, they need a windscreen, which is a piece of cloth or foam that goes over the microphone to reduce wind noise.