For portrait photography in the studio or on location, a portable Nanlite FC-120C Full-Color RGBW LED Spotlight, paired with a small soft box or other light-modifier, can deliver big results for a small dent in the wallet. The unit weighs a mere 2.5 pounds but provides the same high-quality light and control options as Nanlite’s top-of-the-line metal and carbon fiber Forza series. The FC-Series lights are more affordable because they’re constructed with rugged composite plastics.

The 7.6x8x4.5-inch spotlight comes with a hard foam carrying case that also stores the included AC adapter and power cable, a Bowens-mount adapter, and a 45-degree reflector. One reason the fan-cooled FC-120C is so compact is its FM bayonet mount system. While the unit comes with a reflector, many other compact modifiers are available for the FM mount, including the FL-11 Fresnel, FMM soft boxes, and PJ-FMM projection attachments (all sold separately). The included Bowens adapter expands the world of light-modifier compatibility. There is also an integrated space for an umbrella.

The FC-120C delivers powerful output (12,850 lux/1,193 fc at 1 meter, 5,600K with its supplied reflector) and can run continuously through its supplied power adapter. It can also be a valuable lighting tool in remote locations with its separately available battery grip that runs on V-mount batteries. With a USB-C port, you can power the light with USB power-banks or chargers. While the V-Mount Battery Handgrip is sold separately, there is space for it in the included hard-foam case. In addition to being handheld, the handgrip can rest on upright surfaces or be mounted onto a stand.

The screen on the back of the FC-120C is easy to use, guiding photographers and videographers through four control modes: CCT for brightness, color temperatures from 2,700K-7,500K, and green/magenta value adjustments; HSI for brightness, hue, and saturation fine-tuning; RGBW for individual control of red, green, blue, and white values; and effects. The 15 built-in special effects are available for video capture: hue loop, CCT loop, INT loop, flash, storm, police car, TV, paparazzi, candle, fire, disco, bad bulb, firework, explosion, and welding.

The FC-120C can be controlled by phone or tablet through Bluetooth with the free Nanlink app. Control is also possible with the WS-RC-C2 Handheld Remote (sold separately) through the unit’s built-in 2.4G. A locking metal DMX/RDM port is provided for advanced control, and the USB-C port can power DMX receivers (sold separately).

One of the many impressive aspects of the FC-120C is its high level of color accuracy, which all photographers appreciate but is vital for catalog, fashion, beauty, and product photographers.

To test the light, I used it on myself, something I would suggest all photographers do when they’re experimenting with different lighting schemes. First, it saves the hassle of trying to get someone to “sit in” for the test. Also, it’s good to feel what it’s like to be in front of the lens. And finally, we can all use a good new headshot.

Once I dialed in the exposure, angle, and light modifiers for myself, I recruited fellow photographer Lissa Hahn as a model. The more we can dial in our setup, the more we can focus on getting the proper emotion out of a client during a photo session.

During my assisting days I kept a binder with Polaroids and sketched out schematics, noting the settings on the power packs, lights (including the gels and modifiers), and camera exposures. Though Polaroids for testing lights are a thing of the past, I highly recommend photography students embrace the idea of maintaining a physical notebook with their photo setups sketched out.

With a list price of $369 but available for as little as $239, the Nanlite FC-120C can be a great lighting solution for those just starting their journey into the world of artificial lighting and for pros wanting to supplement their lighting arsenals.  

Mark Edward Harris is an award-winning writer and photographer based in Los Angeles.