Swedish lighting manufacturer Profoto has officially unveiled their first shoe-mount flash, the Profoto A1.
The announcement was beset by leaks but their new product, billed as the “world’s smallest studio flash”, has been revealed at a press event in Stockholm.
Compatible with Profoto’s 2.4 GHz AirTTL system, the Profoto A1 is rated 76Ws, with a round flash head and an LED modelling lamp. It accepts special magnetic accessories and can be mounted on or off camera.
There are two separate versions, for Canon (TTL-C) and for Nikon (TTL-N), with different hotshoes for the respective TTL protocols. The built-in wireless transmitter-receiver works at ranges up to 300 metres, according to the manufacturer’s specifications. The recycle time is 1.2 seconds at full power, and output is adjustable over 9 stops or in TTL auto mode.
Photographers will undoubtedly be keen to compare this flash — which, with its articulated head more resembles a speedlight than a bare-bulb studio flash — with other hybrid offerings such as the Godox Witstro series.
Earlier leaks suggested the lithium-ion battery is non-removable, but this turns out not to be the case. Extra batteries are available separately for $99. Other accessories include gel kits and a bounce card.
US retail pricing for the Profoto A1 TTL-C and TTL-N is set at $995. There are no versions for other camera brands yet, but you can use the A1 off-camera with any brand of Profoto Air Remote TTL, including Olympus and Fujifilm. Pre-order now at B&H Photo.
For more information, visit the Profoto web site.