10 Best LED Video Lights (September 2026) Expert Reviews

Finding the best LED video lights used to feel like trying to read spec sheets in a foreign language. I remember buying my first panel light based purely on the wattage number, only to realize later that the color rendering was so off my skin tones looked slightly green on camera. After shooting hundreds of hours of YouTube content, podcast videos, and product photography, I learned that wattage alone tells you almost nothing useful.

Our team has spent the last several months testing 10 of the most popular LED video lights on the market. We looked at brightness output, color accuracy (CRI and TLCI ratings), color temperature range, battery life, mounting flexibility, and real-world ease of use. Whether you are building a home studio, streaming on Twitch, vlogging on the go, or shooting interviews, the right light makes the difference between amateur and professional-looking footage.

This guide breaks down the best LED video lights you can buy in 2026. We have organized everything by use case so you can quickly find the model that fits your workflow, your space, and your budget. Let us start with our top three picks before diving into the full reviews.

Top 3 Picks for Best LED Video Lights

These three lights cover the full range of creator needs. The NEEWER RGB660 PRO II is our top pick for studio and streaming setups that demand serious brightness and full RGB control. The NEEWER 192 LED Panel delivers professional bi-color quality at a mid-range price. And the ULANZI VL-81 is the compact, rechargeable light you can clip onto any camera for under 25 dollars.

Best LED Video Lights in 2026: Quick Overview

The table above gives you a fast side-by-side comparison. Notice how the brightness and color accuracy numbers vary widely across price points. The cheapest option here costs under 40 dollars, while our top pick runs closer to 125 dollars. Each light earned its spot through specific strengths that matter for different shooting scenarios.

1. NEEWER RGB660 PRO II — Best LED Video Light Overall

After three weeks of daily use in our test studio, the NEEWER RGB660 PRO II became the light I reached for first every single time. The 50W constant output means brightness does not drop when you shift color temperature, which is a problem I had with cheaper bi-color panels. At 7000 lux measured at half a meter, this is bright enough to key-light a subject from across a small room.

The color accuracy is where this light really earns its keep. With a CRI of 97+, my skin tones looked natural and consistent across multiple takes. I tested it side by side with a daylight-balanced window, and the transition between natural and artificial light was invisible on camera. That kind of consistency matters more than raw brightness for professional-looking content.

The Bluetooth app control was a genuine workflow improvement for our team. Instead of climbing behind the light stand to adjust settings, I could dim, change color temperature, or trigger scene effects from my phone up to 49 feet away. The app also lets you control multiple lights simultaneously, which is huge if you are running a three-light setup for interviews or product shots.

The 9 preset scene effects deserve a mention too. I used the Lightning and Paparazzi effects for a creative music video shoot, and they worked flawlessly without any flicker on camera. The two custom preset slots let me save my go-to streaming settings so I could recall them instantly before going live.

Who Should Buy the NEEWER RGB660 PRO II

This light is ideal for serious content creators who have outgrown basic panel kits. If you stream regularly on YouTube or Twitch, shoot product photography, or produce interview-style content, the combination of brightness, RGB flexibility, and app control gives you professional results without the Aputure price tag.

It is also a strong pick for small video teams. The ability to control multiple units from one phone means one person can manage a full lighting setup without running between stands. Just budget for NP-F batteries if you need to shoot away from wall outlets.

Setup and Power Considerations

The included AC adapter means you can run this light indefinitely in a studio environment. For location work, the light accepts NP-F550 or NP-F970 batteries, though these are not included in the box. I recommend picking up at least two NP-F970 batteries if you plan to shoot on the go, as they provide significantly longer runtime than the smaller NP-F550.

The included 79-inch metal light stand is sturdy enough for the weight, and the U-shaped bracket allows 180-degree tilt for ceiling bounce or floor lighting. The detachable barndoors give you precise control over spill, which matters when you are trying to light a subject without washing out your background.

2. NEEWER 192 LED Video Light Panel — Best Bi-Color Value

The NEEWER 192 LED Video Light Panel hit the sweet spot between price and performance for our team. At 20 watts with 192 individual LED beads split evenly between warm and cool, this bi-color panel delivers clean, flicker-free light that holds up under scrutiny. The 2400 lux reading at half a meter is plenty for close-up work like desk streaming, talking-head videos, and product close-ups.

I was particularly impressed by the build quality. The ultra-thin design measuring just 0.4 inches thick makes this one of the slimmest professional panels I have tested. It slides into a camera bag alongside a laptop without bulking it up, which matters when you are traveling light for a shoot.

The built-in 4000mAh battery was a welcome surprise. Most panels in this price range require separate NP-F batteries, but this one has the power source built in. I got roughly 90 minutes of continuous use at full brightness, which covered an entire streaming session without needing a swap.

The LCD display is a small feature that makes a big daily difference. Instead of guessing where you set the brightness or color temperature, you can see exact values on screen. This made it easy to match settings across multiple takes and keep my lighting consistent from one shoot day to the next.

Best Use Cases for the NEEWER 192 Panel

This panel shines as a key light for desk-based content creation. If you record YouTube talking-head videos, stream gameplay, or shoot product reviews at a table, the 2400 lux output is more than enough to create clean, professional-looking footage without needing a softbox.

It also works well as an on-camera fill light for event videography and wedding work. The cold shoe adapter mounts directly to most DSLR and mirrorless cameras, and the 180-degree tilt lets you bounce light off a ceiling for softer, more flattering illumination.

Battery and Charging Realities

The 2-hour fast charge time via the 15V 2A adapter gets you back to full power quickly between shoots. One thing to note is that the light does not pass through power while charging, so you cannot run it indefinitely off wall power the way you can with the RGB660 PRO II.

If you shoot long-form content like multi-hour podcasts or live streams, I recommend buying a second unit so you always have a charged backup ready to swap in. At this price point, owning two is still cheaper than many single high-end panels.

3. ULANZI VL-81 — Best Budget LED Video Light

The ULANZI VL-81 is the best LED video light you can buy for under 25 dollars, and it is not even close. With a 4.7-star rating from over 3287 reviews and an 83 percent five-star rate, this little light has built a loyal following among vloggers, mobile filmmakers, and content creators who need something that fits in a pocket.

I clipped this onto my iPhone for a week of casual vlogging and was genuinely surprised by the quality. The 81 LED beads deliver soft, even light thanks to the built-in softbox diffuser, and the CRI 95+ rating means colors look accurate rather than washed out. For close-up work like talking-head vlogs or product showcases, this is more than enough light.

The built-in 3000mAh battery was the feature that won me over. No need to carry spare NP-F batteries or worry about proprietary chargers. Just plug in a USB-C cable and you are topped up. I got close to 480 minutes of runtime at low brightness, which is impressive for something this small.

The three cold shoe mounts on the body are a thoughtful design touch. You can stack a microphone, another light, or a monitor on top, which makes this a versatile hub for run-and-gun mobile shooting rigs. At just 120 grams, it adds almost no weight to your camera setup.

Perfect for Mobile Creators

This light is built for creators who shoot on phones, action cameras, or compact mirrorless bodies. If you make TikTok content, Instagram Reels, or YouTube Shorts, the VL-81 gives you that professional soft-light look without a bulky rig. It pairs perfectly with a smartphone gimbal for stabilized vlogging.

It also works as an emergency fill light for DSLR shooters. I kept one in my camera bag as a backup for situations where my main panel failed or ran out of battery, and it saved more than one shoot.

Limitations to Keep in Mind

The small physical size means this light cannot replace a full-size panel for studio work. If you are lighting a subject from more than 3 feet away, the output drops off noticeably. It is best used at arm’s length or as a supplementary fill light rather than a primary key.

The bi-color range of 3200K to 5600K covers the essentials but does not offer the creative RGB options of more expensive lights. For most vlogging and talking-head work, this is not a limitation, but creative filmmakers may want something with more color flexibility.

4. NEEWER RGB660 PRO — Best RGB Video Light with App Control

The NEEWER RGB660 PRO is the highest-rated light in our entire roundup with a 4.8-star average from 276 reviews, and after testing it for a music video project, I understand why. With 660 individual LED beads including 320 dedicated RGB LEDs, this panel produces saturated, punchy colors that hold up even when bounced off walls or shot through diffusion.

The 9 special lighting scene effects are where this light stands apart from standard bi-color panels. I used the Cop Car and Lightning effects during a dramatic short film shoot, and the flicker-free performance meant every frame was clean. The Party and Fireworks modes are genuinely fun for live streams and event coverage.

The Bluetooth app control works across 8 channels plus an all-channel broadcast mode. This means you can control up to 8 lights independently or sync them all together for matched color shifts. For a multi-light creative setup, this eliminates the need to walk between stands adjusting dials.

The included barn doors give you precise control over light spill, which I found essential for creating moody, directional lighting effects. The white diffuser softens the output for more flattering portrait and interview work, and the U-mount bracket allows full angle adjustment.

Ideal for Creative and Dramatic Lighting

This light is the one to choose if your content involves creative color work. Music video producers, narrative filmmakers, and live streamers who want dynamic background lighting will get the most value from the full RGB spectrum and scene effects. The 50W output means you have enough power to bathe a small room in colored light.

It also works as a traditional bi-color panel for standard content creation. When you do not need the RGB features, it functions just like a high-quality daylight-and-tungsten light with accurate color rendering.

What You Need to Complete the Setup

Keep in mind that this light ships without batteries or a stand. For studio use, the AC power option means you can run it indefinitely off wall power. For portable work, you will need to purchase NP-F550 or NP-F970 batteries separately, and you should pick up a light stand if you do not already own one.

Despite these additional costs, the total investment still comes in well below professional-grade RGB lights from brands like Aputure. For creators who need RGB capability on a budget, this is the smartest purchase on our list.

5. EMART LED Video Light Kit — Best Kit with Barndoors

The EMART LED Video Light Kit is the best all-in-one starter package for creators who want a complete two-light setup without shopping for stands and accessories separately. Our team set this up in under 10 minutes and had a functional key-and-fill configuration ready for a podcast recording session.

The 2800K to 7000K color temperature range is wider than most kits in this price range. That extra range on the cool end is useful if you are trying to match harsh daylight streaming through a window, while the warm end handles cozy indoor ambience for evening streams.

The detachable barndoors are a standout feature at this price point. They let you control light spill and shape the beam, which is something usually reserved for much more expensive lights. I used them to create a focused key light on my subject while keeping the background darker for a more cinematic look.

The 10 brightness levels give you enough granularity to find the right exposure without blowing out highlights. The four cold shoe ports on each light mean you can mount microphones, additional lights, or monitors directly to the panel for a self-contained rig.

Best for Beginners Building a First Setup

If you are starting your YouTube channel or podcast and need a complete lighting solution, this kit eliminates the guesswork. You get two lights, two tripods, barndoors, and phone holders in one package. The 73-inch tripods are tall enough for standing interviews and seated desk setups alike.

The compact folding design makes this kit genuinely portable. I packed both lights and stands into a single backpack for an on-location interview shoot without any hassle.

Power and Charging Details

The USB-C connectivity means you can power these lights from wall adapters, power banks, or even a laptop. Note that wall chargers are not included, so you will need to use your own USB-C adapters or power banks. For mobile shooting, a high-capacity power bank gives you true wireless operation.

The 15W output per panel is adequate for close-range desk work and small-room setups. If you are lighting a large space or shooting from a distance, you may want to step up to a higher-wattage option like the Torjim kit or the NEEWER panels.

6. Torjim 12-Inch Video Light Kit — Best Brightness for the Money

The Torjim 12-Inch Video Light Kit stood out immediately for its brightness. At 30 watts per panel, this is the most powerful kit in the budget tier we tested. When I turned both lights on in my dimly lit office, the difference was dramatic and immediate, turning a muddy-looking space into a properly lit studio environment.

The 12-inch panel size means a larger surface area, which translates to softer, more flattering light on your subject. Larger panels wrap light around faces more naturally than small on-camera lights, reducing harsh shadows under the eyes and chin. This is the kind of light quality that makes people look like they are shooting with expensive equipment.

The in-line controller became my favorite feature during testing. Instead of fumbling with buttons on the back of the panel while trying to maintain eye contact with the camera, I could adjust brightness and color temperature from a wired remote dangling at waist level. It is a small convenience that speeds up your workflow significantly.

The included wireless remote control lets you power the lights on and off from across the room. This is genuinely useful for solo creators who set up their lighting and then need to start recording without walking back to the stands.

Best for Home Studio and Streaming Setups

This kit is purpose-built for the home studio creator. If you record YouTube videos, host live streams, or shoot product photography in a dedicated space, the 30W output provides enough light to fill a small to medium room evenly. The two-light configuration lets you set up a classic key-and-fill arrangement right out of the box.

The 76 percent five-star rating from nearly 3400 reviewers confirms that real users are consistently happy with the brightness and value. This is one of the highest satisfaction rates in the budget kit category.

What the Brightness Levels Mean in Practice

The 9 brightness levels are stepped rather than continuously variable, which means you jump between fixed increments rather than dialing in an exact percentage. For most streaming and talking-head work, this is perfectly adequate since you typically find one or two settings that work and leave them there.

If you need extremely precise brightness matching between multiple lights, the stepped levels may require some compromise. For the vast majority of home studio use cases, the 9 levels cover the full range from subtle fill to full-power key lighting.

7. NEEWER SL90 RGB Video Light — Best Compact RGB Light

The NEEWER SL90 packs an impressive amount of technology into a panel that weighs just 11 ounces. With 80 bi-color LEDs and 70 dedicated RGB LEDs, this compact light offers the widest color temperature range in our entire roundup at 2500K to 10000K. That range lets you match virtually any lighting environment from candlelight warmth to overcast daylight coolness.

The music sync mode was a genuine delight during testing. The light pulses and shifts color in time with whatever audio is playing, which creates instant visual energy for live streams and party content. I used it as an ambient background light during a DJ livestream and the effect was magnetic.

The 2.4G wireless control system is more powerful than standard Bluetooth. You can group up to 255 devices and control them all from one remote or the NEEWER app. For creators building a multi-light RGB setup for events or stage work, this scalability is a major advantage.

Both CRI and TLCI ratings of 97-plus mean this light renders colors accurately for both human perception and camera sensors. The green-magenta adjustment lets you fine-tune the tint to match other lights or correct for environmental color casts, which is a professional feature rarely seen at this price.

Ideal for Streamers and Creative Content

This light is built for streamers and creative content producers who want RGB flair in a compact, desk-friendly form factor. The included desk tripod extends from 6.7 to 8.7 inches, making it perfect for mounting behind a monitor or alongside a webcam for ambient background lighting.

The 18 scene modes cover everything from emergency vehicle lighting to candlelight flicker to party strobe effects. Combined with music sync, this gives you more creative options than any other light in this size class.

Battery Life and Thermal Management

The 4300mAh battery provides solid runtime for a light this bright. I got through a full 2-hour stream on a single charge at moderate brightness with RGB effects running. The light does warm up during extended use at full power, so I recommend running it at 70 to 80 percent for marathon streaming sessions.

The included swivel arm with 360-degree tilt and 90-degree pan gives you flexible mounting options beyond the desk tripod. You can attach it to a camera cold shoe, a light stand, or a separate articulating arm depending on your setup needs.

8. VILTROX VL-162T — Best On-Camera Power Panel

The VILTROX VL-162T is a workhorse on-camera panel that has earned its place as a favorite among DSLR videographers. With 162 LED bulbs producing 1070 lumens and 1250 lux at 1 meter, this light delivers real punch for its compact footprint. I mounted it on a Sony A7 body for an event shoot and was impressed by how much it lifted shadows in a dimly lit venue.

The inclusion of four magnetic color filters sets this panel apart from competitors. I used the filters to add creative color washes for a product showcase, and the magnetic attachment meant I could swap effects in seconds without any fiddly mounting hardware.

VILTROX includes a battery and charger in the box, which is something many competitors leave out. The 3-hour battery life at moderate settings is respectable and means you can shoot a full event without carrying spares. The LCD display shows battery level, brightness percentage, and color temperature so you always know your current settings.

The ability to link multiple lamps together using the extending slots is a clever design feature. I connected two VL-162T units side by side to create a wider, softer light source for an interview setup. This modularity means your investment grows with your needs.

Best for DSLR and Mirrorless Videographers

This panel is designed for shooters who need reliable on-camera lighting for events, weddings, and documentary work. The cold shoe mount fits virtually all DSLR and mirrorless cameras, and the lightweight 16-ounce body does not unbalance your rig during handheld shooting.

The CRI 95+ rating ensures accurate skin tones and product colors, which matters enormously for wedding videography where color accuracy in the final edit is non-negotiable.

Understanding the Filter System

The four magnetic filters let you transform the character of your light without buying additional modifiers. The filters include color correction and creative effect options, giving you flexibility for both technical color matching and artistic lighting choices.

The 20 percent minimum dimming floor means you cannot dim the light all the way down to near-darkness. For most run-and-gun videography, this is not a problem since you rarely need output below 20 percent, but it is worth knowing if you shoot in very tight, close-range situations.

9. VILTROX L116T — Best Ultra-Thin LED Video Light

The VILTROX L116T is the light I recommend to creators who prioritize portability above all else. At just 2 centimeters thick and weighing 260 grams, this is one of the thinnest and lightest LED panels on the market. It slides into a jacket pocket or a tablet sleeve alongside your camera without adding noticeable bulk.

Despite its slim profile, the L116T does not compromise on color quality. The CRI 95+ rating ensures accurate color rendering, and the 3300K to 5600K bi-color range covers the standard warm-to-cool spectrum that handles 90 percent of real-world shooting situations.

The memory function is a feature I came to appreciate more than I expected. When you power the light back on, it recalls your previous brightness and color temperature settings automatically. This saved me time during multi-day shoots where I needed consistent settings across sessions without recalibrating each time.

The honeycomb diffuser surface does a good job of softening the light output without requiring an external softbox attachment. For close-range portrait and talking-head work, this built-in diffusion produces flattering results that minimize harsh shadows.

Best for Travel and Run-and-Gun Shooting

This is the ideal light for creators who are always on the move. Travel vloggers, event videographers, and documentary shooters will appreciate how little space it takes in a bag. The thin profile also means it mounts unobtrusively on a camera without creating an awkward, top-heavy rig.

For run-and-gun situations where you need to move quickly between locations, the lightweight design reduces fatigue during long shooting days. The NP-F550 battery compatibility means you can share batteries with other professional lighting gear if you already own some.

Battery Life Realities

The stated 1.75-hour battery life at maximum brightness is accurate based on my testing. At moderate brightness settings around 50 to 60 percent, you can expect closer to 3 hours of runtime. For longer shoots, carrying a spare NP-F550 battery is a smart investment.

The 15V 2A quick charge capability means you can top up the battery in about 2 hours from a wall adapter. If you have a break between shooting sessions, a partial charge can extend your usable time significantly.

10. NiceVeedi 2-Pack LED Video Light Kit — Best Budget Starter Kit

The NiceVeedi 2-Pack LED Video Light Kit is the most affordable entry point into proper two-light video production that we tested. For under 40 dollars, you get two panels, two tripods, phone holders, and a storage bag. This is the kit I would hand to a friend who is just starting their YouTube journey and needs to look professional from day one.

The CRI 97+ rating is genuinely impressive at this price point and matches lights costing three times as much. Color accuracy is the single most important factor in making your footage look professional, and the NiceVeedi delivers accurate skin tones and product colors without the green or magenta tints that plague ultra-cheap lights.

The three preset color temperatures of 2800K, 4800K, and 6500K cover warm indoor, neutral mixed, and cool daylight scenarios. While you do not get the continuous adjustment of more expensive panels, having three distinct presets makes it easy to match common lighting environments quickly.

The 10 to 100 percent brightness range gives you real dimming control, and the 60-inch tripods are tall enough for seated desk setups and standing shots alike. The included storage bag means you can pack the entire kit into a compact carry case for transport.

Best for First-Time Content Creators

If you are launching your first YouTube channel, starting a podcast with video, or setting up a home streaming space on a tight budget, this kit gives you everything you need to start producing professional-looking content immediately. The two-light setup lets you create proper key and fill lighting rather than relying on a single harsh source.

The 180-degree panel rotation is useful for bouncing light off walls and ceilings for softer, more diffuse illumination. This technique, called bounce lighting, is a simple way to make even budget lights produce flattering results.

What to Know Before Buying

This kit is not Prime eligible, so shipping may take longer than Amazon Prime orders. You will also need to provide your own USB-C wall adapters since they are not included. Any standard phone charger or USB-C adapter from another device will work fine.

The 15W output per panel is adequate for close-range desk work and small-room setups. For larger spaces or distance shooting, consider stepping up to the Torjim 30W kit or one of the NEEWER panels. But for the price, the NiceVeedi kit delivers remarkable value that is hard to beat.

LED Video Light Buying Guide: How We Tested and What to Look For

Choosing the best LED video light means understanding a handful of key specifications that separate professional results from amateur footage. Our team evaluated every light in this roundup against the same criteria so you can compare them on a level playing field. Here is what actually matters when you are shopping for LED video lights.

Color Accuracy: CRI and TLCI Explained

CRI, or Color Rendering Index, measures how accurately a light source reveals the true colors of objects compared to natural sunlight. A CRI of 95 or higher is the minimum standard for professional video work. Every light in our roundup meets or exceeds this threshold, with several hitting CRI 97+.

TLCI, or Television Lighting Consistency Index, is the camera-focused equivalent of CRI. It measures how a camera sensor perceives color accuracy rather than the human eye. A TLCI of 97 or above means your footage will require minimal color correction in post-production, saving you hours of editing time.

Brightness: Lux vs Watts vs Lumens

Lux measures the actual light hitting your subject at a specific distance, and it is the most useful metric for video lighting. A light producing 2000 to 3000 lux at half a meter is sufficient for desk streaming and close-up talking-head work. For larger rooms or distance shooting, look for 5000 lux or higher.

Wattage indicates power consumption, not brightness directly. A well-designed 20W panel can outperform a poorly designed 50W light because LED efficiency varies between manufacturers. Always check the lux output alongside wattage rather than relying on wattage alone.

Color Temperature Range and Bi-Color vs RGB

Color temperature, measured in Kelvin, determines whether your light appears warm (orange) or cool (blue). The standard bi-color range of 3200K to 5600K covers tungsten warm to daylight cool, which handles most standard content creation needs.

RGB lights add full-spectrum color capability, letting you produce any hue for creative effects, colored backgrounds, and scene-based lighting. If you stream gaming content, produce music videos, or want dynamic background lighting, an RGB light like the NEEWER RGB660 PRO II or SL90 gives you creative options that bi-color lights cannot match.

Battery and Power Options

For studio work, AC power means unlimited runtime without battery management. For location and mobile shooting, look for built-in rechargeable batteries or compatibility with NP-F style batteries, which are the industry standard for professional LED lights.

USB-C charging has become the modern standard and lets you power lights from power banks, laptop ports, or wall adapters. The ULANZI VL-81 and the budget kits in our roundup all use USB-C, making them extremely versatile for mobile creators.

Three-Point Lighting for Beginners

The three-point lighting setup is the foundation of professional video lighting. Your key light is the primary source, positioned at a 45-degree angle to your subject. The fill light softens shadows on the opposite side, typically at half the brightness of the key. The backlight, placed behind the subject, separates them from the background and adds depth.

For a beginner setup, a 2-light kit like the EMART, Torjim, or NiceVeedi gives you key and fill lights. You can add a third light later for backlighting, or use natural window light as a free backlight source. The goal is even, flattering illumination that draws attention to your subject rather than your lighting.

Budget Tiers: What to Expect at Each Price Point

Under 50 dollars, you get entry-level panel kits with CRI 95+ ratings, basic brightness adjustment, and included tripods. These are perfect for first-time creators and casual content. The NiceVeedi kit and ULANZI VL-81 lead this category.

Between 50 and 100 dollars, expect bi-color panels with CRI 97+, app or wireless control, and better build quality. The NEEWER 192 panel, VILTROX models, and NEEWER SL90 sit in this range and offer significant quality jumps over budget options.

Above 100 dollars, you get RGB capability, higher wattage, and professional features like scene modes, green-magenta adjustment, and multi-device control. The NEEWER RGB660 PRO II and PRO represent the best value in this professional tier.

Frequently Asked Questions About LED Video Lights

Final Verdict: Which LED Video Light Should You Buy in 2026?

After testing 10 lights across brightness, color accuracy, battery life, and real-world usability, our top recommendation for the best LED video light overall is the NEEWER RGB660 PRO II. Its combination of 50W constant output, CRI 97+ color accuracy, full RGB spectrum, and app control makes it the most versatile light in this roundup for serious content creators.

For value-conscious buyers, the NEEWER 192 LED Panel delivers professional bi-color quality at a mid-range price. And for creators on the tightest budget, the ULANZI VL-81 offers unmatched portability and color accuracy under 25 dollars. Whatever your content creation needs in 2026, one of these lights will help you produce footage that looks professional from the very first take.