Lightpix Labs, a Hong Kong-based company, has launched a crowd-funding campaign to bring an advanced, extremely portable flash to users of small cameras.
The FlashQ Q20 builds on the popularity of the ultra-compact FlashQ flash trigger and has a novel way of attaching to the camera. Rather than having a protruding hotshoe foot, the flash uses the FlashQ transmitter as its mounting point. While off-camera, the Q20’s built-in radio receiver and tripod mount allow it to be positioned anywhere and communicate with the camera, including wireless flash power remote control.
Very small in size, the Q20 is aimed at users of compact system cameras and advanced point-and-shoots, though you could use it in an ultra-portable DSLR kit too. Despite its diminutive stature, the flash nonetheless offers an impressive range of user control, including manual power adjustment from full to 1/128 power, a tilting fresnel for bounce flash capability, two slave modes, a dimmable LED video lamp and a gel holder slot. It takes two AA batteries and has a guide number (GN) of 20.
Power display is via LED “idiot lights” on the rear, where you’ll also find all the other controls. There is no TTL support here, though that means you can use it with any hotshoe-equipped camera, even with remote power control, without worrying about compatibility woes.
Kits (including the FlashQ transmitter) start at $65. The device is offered in white or in black. The campaign aims to raise $60,000, with delivery expected in November 2015. Click here to visit the Indiegogo page.