Sony HVL-HIRL IR NightShot and Video Light for Compatible Sony Camcorders

by Sony

Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 6.4 x 4.7 x 2.4 inches ; 3.2 ounces
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Shipping: Currently, item can be shipped only within the U.S.
• ASIN: B0007XYI9O
• California residents: Click here for Proposition 65 warning.
• Item model number: HVLHIRL
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (19 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank:
  • #32 in Camera & Photo > Accessories > Light Meters & Accessories
• Discontinued by manufacturer: Yes
• Date first available at Amazon.com: October 2, 2001

Product Description

Product Description

Sony's HVL-HIRL video light serves two functions in one device. It works as an infrared NightShot light and 3-watt video light for Sony camcorders that fits easily as HotShoe accessory. The NightShot function works up to 23 feet, and the Super NightShot up to 66 feet. The light is powered by the camera battery, so it automatically shuts off when the handycam is put in standby mode. When it becomes dark, the HVL-HIRL has automatic and manual settings for variable light intensity. Light dimensions are 1.5 by 2.38 by 1.59 inches, and weight is 0.9 pounds. Also includes accessory pouch.

Compatibility:
Sony HC42, PC55, HC90, PC1000 and DVD 203 / 403 camcorders.

Product Description

Ir light/video light for hc96.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

27 of 30 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars One light, two jobs., January 25, 2006

By 

James Hatsis "AHR" (Greensboro, GA USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Sony HVL-HIRL IR NightShot and Video Light for Compatible Sony Camcorders (Electronics)

This light is great! I keep it mounted on my video camera and I never miss a shot due to low light. The light really improves indoor shots. The IR light is an added bonus for capturing night shots that the built in IR just can't reach.

21 of 27 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Sony HVL-HIRL is awesome!, November 18, 2007

By 

C. Taylor "RN_Guy_1979" (Shreveport, LA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Sony HVL-HIRL IR NightShot and Video Light for Compatible Sony Camcorders (Electronics)

Length:: 0:36 Mins

I'm a member of a paranormal investigation group so IR nightshot is a must. What came with my camera (Sony HDR-HC5) was good but not as good as it could be with this attachment. I can already tell a drastic increase in the night shot capabilities. This is definitely recommended by me if you need to do anything in low light such as film paranormal anomolous activity or even just tape drunk uncle Jimmy running around the yard at night.

Here are product links to my setup to help you know what it works well with:
Sony HDR-HC5 4MP MiniDV High Definition Camcorder with 10x Optical Zoom
Sony ECMHST1 Stereo Microphone for DCR-HC96, DCR-DVD305, 405, 505, DCR-SR80, 100, HDR-HC3, HC5 & HDR-UX5 Camcorders
Sony High Definition Minidv Videocassette (2-Pack)

10 of 12 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Good Video Light but very pricey, November 24, 2007

By 

ePenny Saver (San Jose, CA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Sony HVL-HIRL IR NightShot and Video Light for Compatible Sony Camcorders (Electronics)

Im using this HVL HIRL video light with a Sony HC7. Nightshots do get enhanced brightness (though not very much brighter that the unaided HC7 nightshot capability). Having said that, I must admit that it illuminates a roughly 3 ft (1m) circle more of the surroundings than with an unaided HC7. The visible range video light is not any brighter than a fairly powerful spot light which one can get in Radio Shack / Auto parts retailers.

So all in all, its a good compact video light but I'd not want to pay anything more than 30-35$ (I shelled out $75+ since I had no clue of how useful it actually is). So my advice, just dont buy unless its below $35.