When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

Best Light Stands For Photography (2024 Updated)

If you're looking for essential equipment for your photography setup, then light stands are a must-have! These stands offer stability and support for your lighting equipment, enabling you to create perfect lighting for your subject. But before you make a purchase, it's essential to consider some factors to ensure that you invest in the right product that meets your needs.

One of the essential factors to consider is the size and weight of the stand. You need to ensure that it can support the weight of your lighting equipment, and be tall enough to provide the necessary lighting angle you want. It's also essential to consider the material used to make the stand. Some materials may be lighter, but they're not always sturdy, while others are heavier but more durable.

Do you need to have reliable light stands for your photography but don't know which ones to choose? What factors should you consider while choosing a stand? Are you looking for an affordable option, or are you willing to invest in a high-end product? In this article, we'll be discussing all the critical factors you need to consider before you purchase a light stand for photography. We want to help you make an informed decision that will provide the best value for your money!

10 Best Light Stands For Photography

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for photography and videography, supporting equipment such as speedlights, softboxes, umbrellas, strobe lights, cameras, and portraits.
2
The product is ideal for supporting photography lights in both indoor and outdoor settings, being lightweight and durable.
3
Ideal for supporting a camera or lighting equipment during photography or video shoots, with adjustable height and transportation case.
4
This product is ideal for photography and videography enthusiasts who need a versatile and lightweight tripod stand.
5
Ideal for photographers who need a sturdy and adjustable tripod stand for their softbox or strobe.
6
The product is ideal for photography studios to support softboxes, reflectors, and monolights with its heavy-duty adjustable tripod stand.
7
Ideal for use with photography equipment such as reflectors, softboxes, lights, umbrellas and backgrounds.
8
The product is ideal for portable studio photography lighting, with a range of color and brightness settings and a rechargeable battery.
9
The product is ideal for holding studio lights, monolights, softboxes, and reflectors in photography studios.
10
The product is ideal for holding photography lighting, softbox, and flash equipment with its durable and cushioned tripod stand.
The product is ideal for photography and videography, supporting equipment such as speedlights, softboxes, umbrellas, strobe lights, cameras, and portraits.
The product is ideal for supporting photography lights in both indoor and outdoor settings, being lightweight and durable.
Ideal for supporting a camera or lighting equipment during photography or video shoots, with adjustable height and transportation case.
This product is ideal for photography and videography enthusiasts who need a versatile and lightweight tripod stand.
Ideal for photographers who need a sturdy and adjustable tripod stand for their softbox or strobe.
The product is ideal for photography studios to support softboxes, reflectors, and monolights with its heavy-duty adjustable tripod stand.
Ideal for use with photography equipment such as reflectors, softboxes, lights, umbrellas and backgrounds.
The product is ideal for portable studio photography lighting, with a range of color and brightness settings and a rechargeable battery.
The product is ideal for holding studio lights, monolights, softboxes, and reflectors in photography studios.
The product is ideal for holding photography lighting, softbox, and flash equipment with its durable and cushioned tripod stand.

1. Portable Photography Light Stands – 2 Pack

Capture every shot with ease using this premium aluminum alloy light stand. It boasts a sturdy and stable structure that makes it ultra-durable, portable, and lightweight. The height of this stand can be adjusted from 2.5ft to 7ft, with a maximum load capacity of 11lbs.

The solid locking system is super simple and easy to use, ensuring the safety of your lighting equipment when in use. Its legs can fold in and have a knob that locks them in place, making it easy to carry and store in the included carry bag.

This light stand comes with a 1/4-inch threaded screw tip that can be used for photo shooting, mounting strobe lights, umbrellas, softboxes, and other photographic equipment. It is perfect for both studio and on-site use.

Pros

  • Sturdy and stable structure
  • Adjustable height from 2.5ft to 7ft
  • Solid locking system for safety
  • Easy to carry and store with included carry bag
  • Suitable for various photographic equipment and settings

2. Pro Air-Cushioned Light Stand – Red Edition

The Heavy Duty Flash Light Stand is an exceptional choice for professional photographers, carefully crafted from the finest lightweight aircraft-grade aluminum to ensure durability and long-lasting use. It comes in a padded case for easy portability.

With a versatile design, this light stand features a secure twist lock, strong connection joint, reversible 1/4"-20 or 3/8" screw on a 5/8" stud, and a 3-legged support design. Additionally, the main shaft has a distinct red collar around it, which makes it easily identifiable for photography purposes.

Adjusting the height of the Spigot Light Stand is a breeze, as it provides flexible height adjustments, ranging from a minimum of 41.1" to a maximum of 9.5', which can be easily adjusted with large comfortable knobs.

The Photo Light Stand is designed to be compatible with a range of devices, including flash, LED light, right light, phone clamp, and softbox, making it suitable for indoor/outdoor shooting.

One of the standout features of this light stand is its air cushioning/damping feature that provides protection to the equipment from impact damage. This feature ensures that the stand's sections never come down at high speed to cause damage to your mounted equipment or hands.

Pros

  • Lightweight aircraft-grade aluminum construction for durability and portability
  • Versatile design with a secure twist lock, strong connection joint, reversible 1/4"-20 or 3/8" screw on a 5/8" stud, and a 3-legged support design
  • Flexible height adjustments ranging from a minimum of 41.1" to a maximum of 9.5'
  • Compatible with a range of devices, including flash, LED light, right light, phone clamp, and softbox
  • Air cushioning/damping feature provides protection to the equipment from impact damage

Cons

  • – No apparent cons

3. Amazon Basics Aluminum Light Photography Tripod Stand With Case – Pack Of 2, 2.8 – 6.7 Feet, Black

The 6.7-foot light stand is the perfect solution for positioning standard lights, strobe flash lights, backgrounds, and more. This set includes two 6.7-foot light stands, each with a 1/4-inch screw tip and two carrying cases, making it easy to transport and store.

Made of durable yet lightweight aluminum with a black finish, these stands offer long-lasting strength and stability. The adjustable height feature allows for easy customization from 2.8 to 6.7 feet. The stand also has a maximum load capacity of 7 pounds for the first section, 5.5 pounds for the second section, and 1.1 pounds for the third section.

When not in use, the stand easily folds down to a compact size of 2.2 feet, making it easy to store and transport for future use. It is perfect for both novice and professional photographers looking for a reliable and versatile lighting solution.

Pros

  • Includes two light stands and carrying cases for easy transport and storage
  • Made of durable yet lightweight aluminum with a black finish for long-lasting strength and stability
  • Adjustable height feature allows for easy customization
  • Folds down to a compact size of 2.2 feet for easy storage and transport
  • Ideal for both novice and professional photographers

Cons

  • – Maximum load capacity may not be enough for heavy-duty equipment

4. Amazon Basics Aluminum Light Photography Tripod Stand With Case – 2.8 – 6.7 Feet, Black

The 6.7-foot light stand is perfect for positioning and supporting standard lights, strobe flash lights, and backgrounds. It comes with a 1/4-inch screw tip and a carrying case for convenience. Made of durable yet lightweight aluminum, it has a black finish that ensures long-lasting strength.

The height can be adjusted from 2.8 to 6.7 feet, which makes it easy to customize according to the user's needs. The stand can support a maximum load capacity of 7 pounds for the first section, 5.5 pounds for the second section, and 1.1 pounds for the third section. When not in use, it folds down to a compact size of 2.2 feet, making it easy to carry around and store.

Overall, this light stand is a versatile and reliable option for photographers and videographers who need a sturdy support to hold their equipment.

Pros

  • Adjustable height for easy customizing
  • Durable yet lightweight aluminum construction
  • Comes with a carrying case for convenience
  • Folds down to a compact size for easy portability and storage

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for heavy equipment

5. Takerers Stainless Steel Light Stand: Heavy Duty

Upgrade your photography game with Takerers LS11 Light Stand, a heavy-duty lighting stand made of sturdy stainless steel that can resist all weather conditions and won't rust or break over time. Unlike cheap aluminum stands, this one is solid and won't tip over even with heavier lights on them.

Adjustable and portable, the Takerers LS11 can be extended from 3.28ft to 9.2ft (39" to 110") to suit your different requirements. It can also be folded down to 3.16ft/38" and comes with a Takerers carry bag, making it easy to transport and store.

Built-in buffer springs reduce the impact of a sudden sharp drop of the installed equipment. Even if you slam it down, it does not hit each other hard, it kind of bounces, which makes it very sturdy. The sturdy locking feature also protects your devices, though be careful not to accidentally trap your hand if you loosen it too quickly.

Compatible with most equipment thanks to its 1/4” and 3/8” threaded ends, the Takerers LS11 is suitable for heavy-duty photographic gear like softboxes, umbrellas, strobes, monolights, reflectors, flashes, cameras, etc. It's perfect for professional studio, home office, wedding scenes, live broadcasting, and more.

With a load capacity of 22 lbs, this heavy-duty light stand adopts a triangle support structure and an enlarged base up to 3.9ft/47" for stability and firmness. It also comes equipped with a simple and solid locking system to prevent the device from falling.

In the package, you'll receive 1 9.2ft/110" Light Stand, 2 Carry Bags, 1 User Manual, and a 1-year warranty. Upgrade your photography equipment with Takerers LS11 Light Stand and enjoy professional photography everywhere.

Pros

  • Made of sturdy stainless steel that resists all weather conditions and won't rust or break over time
  • Adjustable height from 3.28ft to 9.2ft (39" to 110") to suit different requirements
  • Built-in buffer springs reduce the impact of sudden sharp drops, making it very sturdy
  • Compatible with most equipment with its 1/4” and 3/8” threaded ends
  • Suitable for heavy-duty photographic gear like softboxes, umbrellas, strobes, monolights, reflectors, flashes, cameras, etc.
  • Has a load capacity of 22 lbs and adopts a triangle support structure and an enlarged base up to 3.9ft/47" for stability and firmness
  • Comes equipped with a simple and solid locking system to prevent the device from falling
  • Comes with a Takerers carry bag for easy transport and storage
  • Comes with a 1-year warranty

Cons

  • – The locking feature can accidentally trap your hand if you loosen it too quickly

6. Stainless Studio Stand With Wheels: 10ft Height

The Neewer Rolling Tripod Stand is a must-have for photographers, videographers, filmmakers, and anyone who wants to move their heavy equipment around with ease. This stand is equipped with 360° swivel casters that allow you to glide your equipment on the floor without lifting or dragging it. The step-on brakes lock the casters in place, keeping the stand stationary while in use. The rubber wheels also protect the floor from scratches.

Made from high-quality stainless steel, this tripod is corrosion-resistant and can withstand moisture, high temperatures, and shocks. It is built to support photographic equipment up to 66lb (30kg), making it suitable for use in different weather conditions.

The 3-section telescopic tripod can be adjusted to different heights, from 4.3’ to 10’ (130 to 305cm), making it suitable for a wide variety of height configurations. When not in use, the tripod can be folded down to 3.9’ (120cm) for easy storage and carrying. The comfortable foam pad gives you a firm grip and prevents the tripod from slipping in transit.

The tripod legs can be folded up flat for space-saving storage and effortless transportation. The inbuilt spring-loaded mechanism offsets the impact of sudden drops, protecting your devices from damages.

This rolling tripod stand is compatible with strobes, monolights, ring lights, reflectors, softboxes, and other equipment. It is ideal for shooting indoors and outdoors.

Invest in the Neewer Rolling Tripod Stand today and experience the convenience of easy mobility, solid construction, adjustable height, and universal compatibility.

Pros

  • Equipped with 360° swivel casters for convenient mobility
  • Solid construction that can support photographic equipment up to 66lb (30kg)
  • Adjustable height from 4.3’ to 10’ (130 to 305cm) for a wide variety of height configurations
  • Compatible with strobes, monolights, ring lights, reflectors, softboxes, and other equipment
  • Inbuilt spring-loaded mechanism offsets the impact of sudden drops, protecting your devices from damages

Cons

  • – None

7. Neewer 6ft Light Stands For Photography Essentials

The 6.23 feet light stand is an invaluable tool for any photographer or videographer. Constructed from durable aluminum alloy, this light stand is built to withstand heavy duty work and provide exceptional strength. With a folded height of 25.98 inches, it is easy to transport and store, making it perfect for on-the-go shoots. The maximum height of 74.8 inches provides ample clearance for all your lighting needs. This light stand boasts a maximum load capacity of 13.5 pounds, making it suitable for a wide range of lighting equipment. It also features a standard 5/8-inch spigot, allowing you to easily attach and detach lighting fixtures as needed.

Pros

  • Constructed from durable aluminum alloy for exceptional strength and heavy duty work
  • Folded height of 25.98 inches for easy transport and storage
  • Maximum height of 74.8 inches provides ample clearance for all your lighting needs
  • Maximum load capacity of 13.5 pounds makes it suitable for a wide range of lighting equipment
  • Standard 5/8-inch spigot allows for easy attachment and detachment of lighting fixtures

8. Qeuooiy Rgb Video Light Stick With Stand

The RGB 360° Full Color light is a must-have for self-broadcasting, live streaming, makeup, YouTube, photography, camcorders, and more. With 153 LED beads, including 31 RGB, 61 yellow, and 61 white, this light provides a color hue range of 0-360 and has a life of over 50000 hours with excellent heat dissipation. The index lamp beads ensure CRI≥97, TLCI≥97, and RA≥97, while the adjustable color temperature ranges from 2500K(warm)-9500K(cold) and stepless dimming brightness levels (0%-100%) to provide an illuminance of up to 1100Lux.

The handheld RGB light also comes with 3 lighting modes (warm white, white, warm) and RGB 9 lighting modes (red, orange, yellow, green, cyan, blue, magenta, pink, purple) and 6 common lighting scene effects (candlelight, police car, lightning, fireworks, RGB cyclic, ambulance, etc.). With this diversified lighting design, it creates a unique atmosphere for gathering parties or live-streaming.

The RGB Light Wand is equipped with a built-in rechargeable 10W 5000mAh lithium battery and USB Type-C charging port that offers 130 minutes of operation at 100% power and can also be used while charging. The Overheating Protection function ensures a long light life, and the separate wireless remote allows you to take video or portrait photos easily from a distance up to 50 feet. It provides a more realistic light source for your shooting.

The light wand stick has a 1/4 standard nut hole and a 13.7-inch gooseneck soft tube, while the tripod adopts quick-flip locks and a weighted tripod base for increased stability so it won't tip over. The extension pole material is made of excellent quality aluminum alloy, showing a simple elegant appearance, firm durability, and not easy to break. It can be adjusted to any length between to match your needs, and it's easy to carry.

The light wand is made of aviation aluminum and Hard PC, with natural heat dissipation of metal, TFT display screen, a weight of 349g, and lights dimensions of 406*44*45mm. The package contents include 2 RGB Stick Lights, 2 78.7″ Tripod Stands, 2 Hot Shoe Brackets, 2 Remote Controls, 2 Gooseneck Soft Tubes, 4 USB Type-C Cables, 2 Storage Bags, and 1 User Manual. Perfect for your live video, party, YouTube, Facebook, Live Streaming, and more. Contact the seller if you have any questions or concerns, and they will provide their support.

Pros

  • Provides a wide color hue range of 0-360 and has a life of over 50000 hours with excellent heat dissipation
  • Adjustable color temperature ranging from 2500K(warm)-9500K(cold) and stepless dimming brightness levels (0%-100%)
  • Equipped with a built-in rechargeable 10W 5000mAh lithium battery and USB Type-C charging port that offers 130 minutes of operation at 100% power
  • Separate wireless remote allows you to take video or portrait photos easily from a distance up to 50 feet
  • The light wand stick has a 1/4 standard nut hole and a 13.7-inch gooseneck soft tube, while the tripod adopts quick-flip locks and a weighted tripod base for increased stability
  • Made of aviation aluminum and Hard PC with natural heat dissipation of metal, TFT display screen, and lightweight design for easy carrying
  • Package contents include 2 RGB Stick Lights, 2 78.7″ Tripod Stands, 2 Hot Shoe Brackets, 2 Remote Controls, 2 Gooseneck Soft Tubes, 4 USB Type-C Cables, 2 Storage Bags, and 1 User Manual

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for larger spaces or professional photography needs

9. Stainless Steel C-Stand With Boom Arm.

The Heavy Duty Light Stand is a must-have accessory for all professional photographers. This stand is made of 100% robust stainless steel that offers exceptional stability and can easily mount strobes, monolights, reflectors, softboxes, umbrellas, and other photography gear. The inner buffer spring ensures that sudden drops don't cause any damage to the equipment.

The center column of the stand has three adjustable sections that can be extended from 4.8ft to 10ft (146cm to 305cm) with a foam grip to prevent slipping. The 3.5ft (108cm) extension arm features a 1/4” and 3/8” mounting screw on both ends, making it compatible with most equipment. The grip heads on the arm can securely lock it in place and allow for flexible angle adjustment. The four holes in each grip head fasten rods, arms, and umbrella shafts of different diameters.

The foldable turtle base of the stand makes it easy to place sandbags for added stability without scratching the floor. The nonslip pads on the base ensure that the stand stays in place during use. The legs of the stand can be folded flat for easy storage, making it a convenient accessory for photographers who are always on the go.

The Heavy Duty Light Stand comes with a range of useful accessories, including a silver C stand, a turtle base, an extension arm, and two grip heads. This stand is perfect for professional photographers who need a reliable and sturdy base for their equipment.

Pros

  • Made of robust stainless steel for exceptional stability
  • Adjustable height and extension arm for added versatility
  • Metal grip heads for flexible angle adjustment
  • Foldable turtle base with nonslip pads for added stability
  • Comes with a range of useful accessories

Cons

  • – May be heavier than other light stands

10. Emart Light Stand Set: Sturdy Tripods, Softbox Compatible.

The Heavy Duty Aluminum Photo Portrait Light Stand is a reliable and versatile tool for photographers of all levels. It features a 1/4 inch screw tip on the stem, which is perfect for securely attaching brackets, strobe flash lights/speed lights, reflectors, softboxes, and umbrellas.

The height of the stand is adjustable from 37.8 inches to 102.4 inches, making it suitable for a variety of shooting situations. The tripod legs are strong and stable, providing a solid base for your photographic equipment. The locking knobs are tight and secure, ensuring that your equipment stays in place while you work.

The stand also features spring cushioning, which helps protect your valuable equipment from damage. This is especially important when working with delicate items such as softboxes and umbrellas.

When you're finished shooting, the stand can be easily disassembled and stored in the included durable carry bag. This makes it easy to transport the stand to different locations and ensures that it stays in good condition.

Overall, the Heavy Duty Aluminum Photo Portrait Light Stand is a must-have for any photographer looking for a reliable and versatile stand that can be used both indoors and outdoors.

Pros

  • Adjustable height from 37.8 inches to 102.4 inches
  • 1/4 inch screw tip on the stem for secure attachment of photographic equipment
  • Strong and stable tripod legs
  • Tight and secure locking knobs
  • Spring cushioning to protect equipment
  • Durable carry bag for easy storage and transport
  • Suitable for studios, indoor and outdoor use

Best Light Stands For Photography FAQs

Can I use a light stand for both studio and outdoor photography?

Yes, you can definitely use a light stand for both studio and outdoor photography. Light stands are versatile tools that can hold a variety of lighting equipment, such as strobes, flash units or continuous lights. They are portable, collapsible and adjustable in height, making them suitable for different types of photography. In a studio setting, light stands can be used to position lights and modifiers in specific angles and distances to achieve the desired lighting effects. When shooting outdoors, light stands can be used to bring additional lighting to the scene, or to support reflectors, diffusers, or other accessories. However, keep in mind that outdoor photography presents some challenges that may require specific light stand features, such as stability in windy conditions or weight capacity for heavier lighting equipment. It's important to choose a high-quality light stand that can withstand different environments and situations, and to use it safely and responsibly to avoid accidents or damage to the equipment.

How do I choose the right height for my light stand?

Choosing the right height for your light stand can be crucial in achieving the desired lighting effect for your photography or video shoot. The first thing you need to consider is the purpose of the lighting. Are you trying to light up a specific subject, or are you going for an overall ambient lighting effect? Once you have determined the purpose, you can start to choose the right height.

For lighting up a specific subject, the general rule of thumb is to position the light at a 45-degree angle from the subject and raise it above the subject's eye level. This angle and height will help to create a natural-looking effect with minimal shadows.

For an overall ambient lighting effect, you may want to position the light lower to the ground to create a more diffused effect. This can be achieved by placing the light stand at a lower height and using a larger diffuser or softbox to spread the light.

When choosing the right height, it is also important to consider the space you are working with. If you have a low ceiling, you may need to lower the light stand to avoid casting shadows on the ceiling.

Ultimately, the right height for your light stand will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Experimenting with different heights and angles can help you find the perfect setup for your lighting needs.

How do I properly set up and secure a light stand for safety during a photoshoot?

When setting up a light stand for a photoshoot, safety should always be the top priority. Here are some tips to properly set up and secure a light stand:

1. Choose a stable location: Look for an area that is flat and stable for your light stand. Avoid placing it on uneven surfaces or near high traffic areas where it may be knocked over.

2. Use sandbags: Place sandbags or other heavy objects on the legs of the light stand to increase stability and prevent it from tipping over.

3. Tighten all knobs: Make sure all knobs and screws on the light stand are tightened properly. This includes the knobs that hold the legs in place and the ones that secure the light to the stand.

4. Check cables: Make sure all cables are properly secured and not tangled around the stand. This can prevent tripping hazards and damage to equipment.

5. Use a safety cable: Attach a safety cable to the light stand and secure it to a nearby wall or ceiling. This provides an extra layer of security in case the stand is accidentally knocked over.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your light stand is properly set up and secured for a safe and successful photoshoot.

What are the different types of light stands available for photography?

There are various types of light stands available for photography that cater to different needs and preferences of photographers. The most common types are C-stands, tripod stands, and boom stands. C-stands are heavy-duty and have a stable base, making them ideal for holding heavy lights and light modifiers. Tripod stands are lightweight and portable, making them easy to carry around for outdoor shoots. They come in various sizes and can hold lights of different weights. Boom stands are designed to hold lights overhead, making them perfect for creating dramatic lighting effects. They have a counterweight system that allows the photographer to adjust the height and angle of the light easily. Additionally, there are also light stands with wheels, which are convenient for studio shoots where the lights need to be moved around frequently. Overall, the choice of light stand depends on the photographer's shooting environment, equipment, and creative vision.

What is the weight limit for light stands and how does it affect my choice?

The weight limit for light stands is an important factor to consider when choosing the right stand for your photography or videography needs. Light stands come in different sizes and weight capacities, and it is crucial to choose one that can support the weight of your equipment.

The weight limit of a light stand refers to the maximum weight it can safely hold without tipping over or collapsing. This weight includes not only the weight of your lighting equipment but also any modifiers or accessories that you may add to it.

When selecting a light stand, ensure that the weight limit is higher than the total weight of your equipment. It is advisable to choose a stand with a higher weight limit than you need to provide a safety margin, especially if you plan to use it outdoors where there may be wind or uneven surfaces.

Using a light stand with a weight limit that is too low for your equipment may cause it to tip over, fall, and damage your gear. Therefore, it is essential to consider the weight limit when choosing a light stand to ensure the safety of your equipment and yourself.

Leave a Comment