|
It takes 3-4 hours to give them a good charge and the battery then only lasts 20-30 minutes tops. To compensate I had to buy more than one. The rechargeable battery seems to have a very short charge life. This way I can replace one with another. If you are recording in the dark for an hour you will need 2 or 3 units. It takes a long time to charge too.
In short, I'd much rather prefer the Sony HVL-IRM infrared light (see my review of this product). In my line of work as a Paranormal Investigator, changing lights every 45 min.s is just aggravating, though the "Floodlight"-type effect does have its benifits. The lighting is more of a Flood-like effect, unlike the Sony HVL-IRM which is more like a "Flashlight"-type illumination. The 20IR is capable of up to 45min.s of continuous IR lighting, and requires over 2hours to recharge. The short illumination time is further hampered by it's recharge time. The Sima SL-20IR is a great improvement from the 10IR.
My guess would be an illumination distance of 30-50 feet. However, that's where the positive characteristics end. OVER 2 HOURS. I've been using a Sony Handycam DCR-HC28 with Nightshot. One is sufficient to light up two entire rooms indoors unlike the 10IR (I have not tried it outside yet). I bought two of them, so between the two I can shoot for approx.
I have relegated these two SL-20IR to the job of enhancement/emergency use. 1 1/2 hours (with the camera's small IR light to help on the last 5 min.s or so).
The batteries charge in about three hours. It works very good for the price paid. When there is no moon light,this tool fits the bill.It will light up a whole field for night viewing. I use it for a night vision scope. This is avery good product. This will give one hour of light. I do not know how it works on a camcorder or iR photography.I will be soon to find out as I will buy a camera for this. That is a good ratio for the lighting.
It is NOT a light that will add much though.I've used it on a Canon 5D Mark II, I turned it off and cranked up the ISO. It helps, but not much.It's small and seems to be made to last but the light output is not a lot. I used the unit a number of times in differing lighting conditions. Having worked as a TV news photograspher back in the 16mm film days I can tell you this is not a commercial quality light. Had far better results that way. If the shoot is in a tiny room, in very dark conditions, it helps.
This IR light is Great.I use it with my Sony Camcorder for Ghost Hunting.The thing lights up to about 50+ feet away.I recommend this for any night shootting.I will be buying a second Light because the Battery last for about 45 minutes only.
|
