In a move that we never expected, light shaping experts Profoto have dropped two new lights for smartphones. Introducing the Profoto C1 and C1 PLUS, two pocketable lights that produce beautiful light.
Both lights have the ability to be used as a flash, or a flicker free continuous light which is perfect for video. At this point in time both the C1 and C1 PLUS is only compatible with iPhone 7 and above via the Profoto app. An android app is still pending for a release date.
Profoto C1 Features
- Round shape with a soft fall-off gives a beautiful light
- Inner reflectors placed under a built-in dome diffuser evenly mix the light to create natural shadows
- Color rendering index >90
- 4 warm and 3 cool LEDs mixing seamlessly to mimic daylight colour temperatures from 3000-6500K
- Auto + manual
- Adjustable power levels from natural to dramatic effect (max 1600 lumens)
- Flash and flicker-free continuous light
- Built-in rechargeable Li-Polymer battery packs >2000 full-power flashes or > 30 minutes
- USB-C charging 2h to full
- Compatible with iPhone 7 and later
Profoto C1 PLUS Features
- Profoto Air compatible
- Round shape with a soft fall-off gives a beautiful light
- Inner reflectors placed under a built-in dome diffuser evenly mix the light to create natural shadows
- Click-on magnetic mount for Clic light shaping tools
- Color rendering index >90
- 10 warm and 10 cool LEDs mixing seamlessly to mimic daylight colour temperatures from 3000-6500K
- Auto + manual
- Adjustable power levels from natural to dramatic effect (max 4300 lumens)
- Flash and flicker-free continuous light
- Built-in rechargeable Li-Polymer battery packs >2000 full-power flashes or > 40 minutes
- USB-C charging 2h to full
- Compatible with iPhone 7 and later
Differences between C1 and C1 PLUS
There are a few feature differences between the C1 and C1 Plus that could people towards the C1 Plus.
- Air compatibility: The C1 Plus has Profoto Air in built which means you’re able to integrate the C1 Plus into your current Profoto kit. Alternatively use your Profoto C1 with your camera.
- Light shaping tools: The C1 has an integrated dome whereas the C1 Plus uses the Clic system. Clic accessories include grids, domes and gels. Therefore increase the C1 Plus’ creative capabilities. Furthermore these Clic accessories can be used on the Profoto A1 and A1X.
- Varying brightness levels: The Profoto C1 outputs 1600 lumens whereas the C1 PLUS outputs 4300 lumens
- Mounting: The Profoto C1 Plus can be mounted on to anything with a 1/4 male screw. Therefore enabling usage on tripods, light stands and more.
Image Samples
We had heaps of fun using the Profoto C1 and C1 Plus with an iPhone 8. In addition took some samples using a Canon 5D Mark IV + 50mm 1.2 paired with the C1 Plus. We’ve also attached samples from Instagram portrait legend @brandonwoelfel.
Our Thoughts
Having the flexibility to create good looking light for your phone is brilliant. Although skeptical at first having used both lights for an extended period of time, we found ourselves having a lot of fun experimenting and shooting. The ability to incorporate the Profoto C1 PLUS into the air system. We can see this being beneficial for anyone looking for a kicker light, on the go portrait light or even interior architecture.
Stock is available now in store and buy now links will be updated soon.
