I’ve been really enjoying documenting my fitness journey with the DJI Osmo Action 3.
Throughout the year so far, I’ve documented run after run. But now I’ve run, literally run, into the common problem with action cameras that I hear so many content creators talk about, just how poor the video quality of these are in low light (Which isn’t surprise to me as I already knew that).
So, heading into the darker morning as the winter months fast approach, it seems almost overnight (as the clocks changed), that I’ve gone from videos telling the stories to pictures, which isn’t quite as compelling (as it’s too dark to create videos).
How do you turn low light into better light on one of these.
This is the Ulanzi LM18 Quick release LED light, and it’s going to allow me to use my action camera in those darker low light conditions, because at the moment I can’t do any, and the issue particularly on action cameras is that they have no option to light up their own scene.
Features
The first thing you’ll notice about this light is just how compact, lightweight, and portable it is. Perfect for action cameras like the DJI Osmo Action 3 here, as well as the Action 4 and 5, and with an expansion adapter, that you can get from Ulanzi, the Osmo Pocket 3 as well.
If you’re used to the quick release magnetic design on the Osmo Action cameras, then this light features that same quick release magnetic design, making it super easy and familiar to attach and detach, so if you’re on the go, you’re not wasting any time setting up.
If you’re using the camera cage, you can just snap it on and off without fiddling around with screws or mounts. When you’ve got it attached to a mount and the camera is in the cage, you can use the vacant mounting point as the place to attach this in either portrait or landscape orientation.
The light itself is powerful for its size. It has 3 adjustable brightness levels, which can go from a subtle fill light to a more intense burst with the consistent colour temperature of 5600K.
At its maximum brightness and on a full charge, you’ll get up to 1 hours worth of light and at minimum brightness up to 8 hours. It has got a 500mAh battery and can be charged via USB-C.
Durability
Another big plus is its durability. Action cameras are all about rugged environments, and you want your accessories to match that. This has a IPX5 waterproof rating, so it can handle splashes, dust, and a bit of rough handling. Perfect for action sports, hiking, or outdoor adventures where you’re working in less than perfect conditions.
Weighing in at just 31 grams, it’s barely going to add any bulk to your setup.
For me, this has already proven to be a lifesaver because I’m not a fan of using my phone’s flash to shoot in the dark for those obvious security reasons. But now for anyone filming in low-light situations or if you’re vlogging outdoors at dusk or dawn you’ve got a small light that simply attaches to your camera.
Who is this light for?
If you’re a vlogger, content creator, or someone who films a lot on the go with an action camera like the DJI Osmo Action 3, this is a fantastic addition to your kit. It’s especially valuable for travellers, adventure enthusiasts, or anyone who finds themselves needing quality light in unpredictable conditions.
Alternatively, if you’re also doing something completely different, like creating tutorials, reviewing products, or capturing close-up shots, this is going to give you that crisp accented lighting to make everything look sharp and detailed, particularly useful if you don’t want to get your big studio lights out.
This offers a great balance of power, portability, and ease of use. And that quick release magnetic mount just makes it so user-friendly. It’s affordable, powerful, and perfectly designed to complement Osmo Action cameras.
If you want to see the video version of this article, check out the YouTube link below: