Sony HVL-HL1 Video Light (3-Watt) for Compatible Sony Camcorders

by Sony

Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 6.4 x 4.7 x 2.6 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: B0007NP7ZS
• California residents: Click here for Proposition 65 warning.
• Item model number: HVLHL1
• Average Customer Review: 4.2 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (51 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank:
  • #1 in Camera & Photo > Accessories > Lighting > Continuous Output Lighting
  • #8 in Camera & Photo > Accessories > Light Meters & Accessories
• Discontinued by manufacturer: Yes
• Date first available at Amazon.com: January 28, 2005

Product Description

Works with DCR-HC42, DCR-HC90, DCR-PC55, DVD102/202/402 Three-watt video designed exclusively for compatible Handycam camcorders Provides a bright light for shooting in dark places or where there is a strong backlight The auto function feature turns the light on automatically in dimly lit situations

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

33 of 35 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Wow, what a difference!, February 16, 2006

By 

Brian Jones (Ventura, California, USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Sony HVL-HL1 Video Light (3-Watt) for Compatible Sony Camcorders (Electronics)

I purchased this 3 watt light for my Sony DCR-HC96 Mini DV camera. Without the light, the camera's indoor performance is mediocre at best. I have to admit that I didn't expect much when I attached this little light to the camera. But boy, was I wrong - The difference is amazing! While 3 watts may not sound like a lot, it's enough to light your subject from up to 10 feet away with no problems. I am astonished at how much better the video is when using this in low light. Note that the build quality of this light is nothing special, and it does get extremely hot after only a few minutes of use. But you will be rewarded by the big difference it makes on your video. Overall, I'm extremely satisfied with my purchase.

29 of 31 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Good accessory, January 21, 2006

By 

Mikhail Stoma "3dMike" (Mexico) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Sony HVL-HL1 Video Light (3-Watt) for Compatible Sony Camcorders (Electronics)

I bought this light for my DCR-DVD92, which doesn't have any lamp integrated. Makes notorious improves for poor lightning shots. But be prepared with another than standard battery, because this light takes half of your battery's power. I also bought NP-FP90 for it (this battery will give you 150 minutes with this light on). Also the storage pouch is useful. Fits both: light and NP-FP90 battery.

14 of 14 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Must-have accessory for yr Sony Camcorder, November 14, 2006

By 

Gordon D. Adams (Atlanta, GA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Sony HVL-HL1 Video Light (3-Watt) for Compatible Sony Camcorders (Electronics)

A video camera without a light is like a still camera without a flash -- if your Sony camcorder doesn't come with a light built in, you need this!

A couple of notes: This light is much smaller than I'd expected -- it's only about 1" across the front by 1.5" high by 1.5" deep. It doesn't sound like much, but it puts out a remarkable amount of light, enough to illuminate out your subject with an even, warm light, even from nearly 10' away.

The reason I can't give it 5 stars: it puts out a lot of heat, and it will cut your battery life in half (I've got the HDR-SR1). Both of these issues would be readily addressed by Sony providing an LED version of this light, but until they do, I don't think any other accessory could possibly give your videos the bang-for-buck that this one does.