Profoto A1X or Nikon SB 5000?

[taat2d]

So I'm getting back into my photography. I just got a part time gig shooting events for a local studio, and I plan on starting to shoot parties and events again on my own. I'm getting a D6 and figured it's time to upgrade my flash as well. So between these 2, I was wondering what most are using and why they feel one is better than the other. I've been away from photography for some time now, I'm from the D3S era. LOL I'd love to hear some thoughts guidance on which flash would be better for parties, events and PJ type work.

Thanks in advance!!

 

[GonzoBernelli]

Profoto with all accessory bits. I had 2 Nikon 5000s but after only a day of Profoto use I never missed the Nikons. Get extra batteries (I got 2 extras) and at least one additional charger. Force yourself into a recharge of all batteries every month - I chose the first day of every month.

 

[GonzoBernelli]

ALSO:
- All flashes are at same power level and color temperature so illumination is constant over a shoot.
- Even using a single battery I never ran out of power
- A switch on side of flash switch’s device into TTL mode
- All usage help is built into the device firmware
- Help info is in English, brief and informative. Nothing like a 200 page manual with no ‘see page X for this’ and ‘see page Y for that’ and ‘see page Z for something else, but only on Tuesdays with odd number date’
- Firmware is updateable as Profoto finds and fixes bugs

 

[TonyW]

Have you considered any of the Godox offerings? I have not done a feature for feature comparison but the Godox V1 appears similar and the Godox AD200 Pro with the round flash head has bags of power in reserve and if coupled to the detachable extension makes for a powerful carry around and studio flash - I am considering this unit for my own use

Godox V1
https://www.amazon.com/Godox-Speedl...d=1&keywords=Godox+V1-N&qid=1630598689&sr=8-3

For a more powerful output but more bulky option

Godox Ad200 pro For studio stand
https://www.amazon.com/Godox-AD200-...eywords=Godox+ad200+pro&qid=1630598999&sr=8-3

Extension - 2 meter extension moving the existing head away from the flash body
https://www.amazon.com/Godox-Extend...00+round+head+extension&qid=1630599095&sr=8-8

Round head
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GDJJPQ...uPWNsaWNrUmVkaXJlY3QmZG9Ob3RMb2dDbGljaz10cnVl

Wireless trigger
https://www.amazon.com/Wireless-Blu...eywords=godox+hss+nikon&qid=1630600007&sr=8-3

If not using on a stand you would need to look at a carry method e.g. bag over shoulder or belt bag to hold the battery

 

[Walter Rowe]

Look for reviews comparing the Godox and Profoto. A significant reason people pay $1K for a Profoto unit is consistency. You need consistent power and color pop to pop, at all power levels. You want neutral color cast. You want the same color temperature at -2 stops TTL, at 1/32nd power, and at full power. You want consistent power output every time you fire at a given power setting.

Every review I read about Profoto (all flashes and strobes) says they are unmatched in consistency. That is why they can charge so much. That is why the most demanding photographers often choose them.

Many reviews I have read from wedding photographers that work their flashes really hard at a high pace say Godox cannot stand up to the job. They overheat too quickly and don't recycle fast enough.

 

[TonyW]

I cannot comment on the Godox V1 but the Godox AD200 pro (note the pro name) matches the needs of consistent power, colour temp at all flash levels and consistent output at any power settings. The additional power output @200 WS may help those that cover events where they have to shoot large groups.

 

[taat2d]

I don’t shoot weddings anymore. Most of my shooting is without flash. As much as I WANTED, the Profoto, I really can’t justify one right now… So for the price of one Nikon SB 5000, I decided to try the Godox and ordered 2 of them. Hopefully, for they type of shooting I do and the amount I’ll use them, they’ll be good for me.
Thank you for the advice!!

 

[Walter Rowe]

I don’t shoot weddings anymore. Most of my shooting is without flash. As much as I WANTED, the Profoto, I really can’t justify one right now… So for the price of one Nikon SB 5000, I decided to try the Godox and ordered 2 of them. Hopefully, for they type of shooting I do and the amount I’ll use them, they’ll be good for me.
Thank you for the advice!!

That seems like a reasoned, thoughtful decision.

 

[taat2d]

That seems like a reasoned, thoughtful decision.

Yeah for once I’m trying to use a little logic. ??