Aptolux Unveils the Modular Video Light MP-1
Aptolux is a company founded by photographer and filmmaker Alvis Rozenbergs, which has spent the last couple of years working on a new modular lighting system that solves many pain points that he ran into during his nearly decade-long career: heavy, single-function lights that are costly to buy and just as expensive to repair. The company’s first product in pursuit of that goal is the Aptolux MP-1. The MP-1 is a modular lighting system that can change its size and shape based on a videographer’s or photographer’s needs.
“I have been filming for over 10 years now. Shooting in different locations has always been a big part of the job and trips between them can be challenging. Carrying bags with all the necessary equipment or having to make the choice among all lighting options wasn’t always easy, so I decided to build portable and versatile video lights myself,” Rozenbergs says.
To address these issues, Rozenbergs created the Aptolux MP-1, a modular lighting kit that consists of six panels that can be combined together into different shapes and forms depending on the need of the creator. Disassembled, and they are about the size of a lunchbox and can be easily fit into a backpack. When in use, the MP-1 promises high-quality bi-color, RGB, and animated lighting effects.
The six panels are each 20W light sources, so combined in the full six-panel kit, the MP-1 delivers up to a 120W light source. The MP-1 is designed to replace common lighting panels included small and medium panels, light sticks, strip light (up to 140cm), ring lights, and even large lighting panels. Each panel is 2000 lumens bright. The adjustable color temperature ranges from 3000 to 6000K, and color accuracy is rated at CRI 96, TLCI 97. Additional features include 0 to 100% dimming and 30 animated lighting effects.
Rozenbergs adds that before developing the product in its current state, he worked with more than 100 videographers from around the world who helped him with building out the concept for the light. After it was prototyped, a second round of more than 500 videographers provided feedback and suggestions before the current iteration of the product was completed. Rozenbergs says that the long-term goal of the company is to offer gear that removes restrictions, nourishes creativity, and helps videographers evolve.
While the light was originally developed with filmmakers in mind, Rozenbergs says he has gotten a lot of positive feedback from food photographers, who he says tell him that since they shoot all around the country in different restaurant sets, mobility is really important to them.
The Aptolux MP-1 is available now for preorder until November 18. The starter kit is $300 and includes two panels. A four-panel kit is $600 and a six-panel kit is $850. The early bird prices are 40% off the eventual retail price. Different lighting accessories are in the works, including a diffuser, honeycomb grid, detachable lens array, wireless control adapter, softbox mount, mounting plate, c-stand mount, and bracket.
More in on Aptolux’ website.
