Using The Aputure AL-M9 In 2022 + Examples + Giveaway
The Aputure AL-M9 mini light came out almost 6 years ago, so is it still a good option in 2022? There are now a lot of competitive options out there, but I do still think that the Aputure AL-M9 a good option based upon its portability and output for the price combined with the brand reputation of Aputure. This light even recently had a price drop in some online stores from around $50 to around $30.
This light is very portable, and you can just put in your pocket or in a camera bag and go. It comes with a nice magnetic diffuser which I recommend using to help with the multi-shadow effect LEDs can have. The light is its own battery, so you don’t need to charge anything for it, BUT you do need to charge *it*. It can be a bit annoying to remember to charge 1 more thing, so it more of a feature, it’s not really a bonus. One place I really like using this light is as a hair or edge light, especially in tight spaces. With its size, and just a little bit of distance, I can achieve a hard-ish edge light look in pretty much any space that I’m shooting in. I often find myself using some black wrap and putting it around the edges to reduce spill and get just a little more control over the light. If you’re doing running gun documentary work and are going to keep it on top of your camera, it is a light and powerful option that can also be powered by USB.
I have seen this asked a lot, so: Can it be a key light? I’d say in a big pinch this light *could* be used as a key light, but it will definitely need some fill. If your options are no light, or this as your key light, it will work wonders for you! However, I certainly don’t recommend planning on using as your key light, if you don’t have to. It can easily be used as fill for a more powerful key light setup, which is probably a much more reasonable use. If you’re thinking of using it to kind of light video calls or livestreams, I probably would suggest something a little softer for a more flattering presentation. Although it does work really well for an edge or accent light in those types of setups.
Compared to the newer Aputure MC RGBWW that sells for around $100 I still think that AL-M9 is a reasonable purchase at almost 1/3 of that price, when budget is your concern. You will get less features like no RGB and no magnetic back, but retain strong enough output and lightweight portability, which are this light’s key features anyway. If you have a little bit more of a budget, I would look into the MC to judge whether or not those added features would be worth it for your needs. Now there are other sellers out there who have similar LED lights that do have the RGB function for a similar cost to the AL-M9. Which is great if you need those functions, but they’re all essentially the same light sold under different branding, so I do prefer that this is a well made product from a reputable brand like Aputure despite it not having the RGB functions.
The Aputure AL-M9 is definitely a light that can be a cheap and valuable addition to light kits in 2022!
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AFFILIATE LINKS TO PRODUCTS DISCUSSED:
- Aputure AL-M9 – Now Only $30! – https://amzn.to/3qODr4U
- Aputure AL-MC RGBWW – https://amzn.to/3GUP5kk
- GVM p80s – https://amzn.to/3Am1co8
- Rokinon 35mm EF – https://amzn.to/3GTKK0P
- URSA Mini Pro – https://amzn.to/3qZ0uud