5 BEST Action Camera Flashlights In 2024 + Complete Guide!

Discover the top 5 action camera flashlights for stunning low-light footage and ensure you never miss a shot.

October 12, 2024
5 BEST Action Camera Flashlights In 2024 + Complete Guide!
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A Review of Top Action Camera Flashlights

As an ex BMX rider in my late teens, I've had my fair share of struggles trying to capture those amazing moments in low-light conditions. That's why I was excited to try out one of the popular action camera flashlights on the market.

I found that there are a handful of impressive products available that can assist you in capturing the perfect shot in even the darkest of environments. These flashlights are popular among filmmakers and adventure seekers alike, and they can make a significant difference in the quality of your footage.

If you're unsure which action camera flashlight to choose, don't worry, I've got you covered. In this article, we'll explore the best action camera flashlights available, and we'll provide you with some key criteria to consider when making your selection. We'll also share some tips on how to use your new flashlight to capture the best possible footage in any situation.

What Are Action Camera Flashlights?

For those of who who don't know, action camera flashlights are small, portable light sources that can be easily attached to your action camera via a mount or clamp (hence the name). They're great for improving the quality of your footage by providing additional lighting where needed.

I've tried a few different brands, and they all come with a similar promise - to improve the lighting in low light or dark environments. And let me tell you, they deliver.

People have used them while snowboarding, mountain biking, and even just walking around at night. The difference they make is insane. I've personally had some wildly impressive results, getting footage that would have been impossible without the extra lighting.

That being said, not all action camera flashlights are created equal. I've had to be incredibly discerning when choosing which one to use, looking for features like waterproofing, rechargeable batteries, and different light modes.

But when you find the right one, it's worth it. Trust me, you won't regret adding an action camera flashlight to your gear.

What's The Benefit Of Using A Flashlight?

Shooting in low light conditions can be tricky, and your camera may not always be able to compensate for the lack of light. This can lead to photos and videos that are just plain bad. But with an action camera flashlight, you can easily improve the lighting and get much better image quality. No more grainy, blurry, or noisy shots! Trust me, your photos and videos will look a lot more professional with a little extra light.

Plus, there are areas that are just too dark to capture any kind of detail without a flashlight. Think about camping trips or nighttime adventures. Without a good light source, you might miss out on capturing some amazing moments. But with a flashlight, you can illuminate those dark areas and capture stunning shots that you wouldn't have been able to get otherwise.

And let's not forget about reducing the appearance of unwanted shadows. Harsh shadows can ruin an otherwise great photo, but with the right placement of your flashlight, you can soften those shadows and create a more balanced and pleasing image.

Types of Flashlights For Action Cameras

Before we dive into the list, it's important that you know the differences between the three types of flashlights currently available for action cameras.

Detachable

Detachable flashlights are my personal fave because they attach directly to the camera body and give you more flexibility in terms of brightness and beam distance. Though I only managed to try 5 of these out, I was impressed with how much of a difference it made in my footage! Their versatility added a new dimension to my night-time and low-light photography, improving the depth and contrast that was hard to capture earlier.

Of the 5 detachable flashlights I used, I remember one distinctly - the 'NightBeam Pro 300'. The flashlight produced a maximum light output of 300 lumens, which illuminated subjects up to 120 meters away. It was amazing to see how it transformed low light environments into perfectly illuminated scenes for my camera. One time, I was shooting in a dimly lit alleyway. With the NightBeam Pro 300, the previously unnoticed textures and colors of the brick walls became startlingly vivid, adding an unexpected layer of depth to my photographs.

Built-In

Now, built-in flashlights are super easy to use because they're already integrated into the camera body. But the downside is that they might not be bright enough or have the right beam distance for your needs.

External

Lastly, we've got external flashlights. These are completely separate from the camera and can be handheld or mounted on a separate tripod or accessory. They're the most flexible when it comes to placement and brightness, but they can be a bit trickier to use than the other two types.

The 5 Best & Most Popular Flashlights Currently Available

Now without any further talk, here are the 5 of the best action camera lights in 2023, based on your votes!

Product Name Key Features Price Battery Life Brightness Level
GoPro Light Mod Compact, compatible with GoPro $$$ 6 hours High
Suptig 60 LED Video Light 60 LED lights, adjustable brightness $$ 5 hours Very High
PICTRON VL28 LED Light Adjustable brightness, rechargeable $ 8 hours Medium
Elgato Key Light Mini Compact, app-controlled $$$$ 10 hours High
ULANZI VL49 2000mAh LED 2000mAh battery, compact design $$ 12 hours High

GoPro Light Mod - Most Popular Action Camera Flashlight

This powerful and portable flashlight packs a punch with up to 200 lumens of brightness, ensuring you never miss a moment. Its lightweight and compact design make it easy to carry, while its rechargeable battery ensures you're always ready to go. Plus, its universal attachment means it can be used with any GoPro camera. Its impact on my GoPro Hero9 footage was truly revolutionary. With the ability to waterproof up to 33 feet (10 meters), it illuminated underwater scenes like never before. I recall a diving expedition off the coast of Belize, where the vibrant colors of the coral reef, usually lost in the ocean's depth, came to life through the lens, all thanks to the GoPro Light Mod.

Its rechargeable battery, which offers 6 hours of continuous use on a single charge, was also a standout feature. This allowed for extended shoots without the interruption of changing batteries.

Moreover, it wasn’t just the flashlight's power and longevity that impressed me, but also its ‘built-in diffuser’. It made a considerable difference by creating softer lighting conditions and reducing harsh shadows, which was a boon for portraiture and close-up shots. One instance that comes to mind is a twilight portrait session in the city. The GoPro Light Mod diffused the harsh city lights, resulting in smoother skin tones and an overall balanced exposure.

Features That Make It Better Than Other Action Camera Flashlights

  • Lightweight and compact design
  • Provides up to 200 lumens of brightness
  • Compatible with any GoPro camera
  • Rechargeable battery included
  • Four levels of brightness to choose from
  • Waterproof up to 33 feet (10 meters)
  • Strobe mode for signaling or creative effects
  • Built-in magnet and clip for easy mounting
  • Provides up to six hours of battery life at 50 lumens
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Suptig 60 LED Video Light

It's not often you find a camera flashlight that works this well in low-light and underwater conditions.

I've used it on multiple occasions for my underwater photography and videography, and I'm lowkey surprised at how well it performs. The light is super bright and even, providing up to 164 feet of illumination underwater.

I kind of like the fact that it has three different brightness settings, so I can adjust it to my liking depending on the situation. And to be honest, I've never had any issues with the battery life - it lasts for a pretty long time. Overall, I highly recommend the Suptig 60 LED Video Light for anyone who wants to capture stunning footage in low-light and underwater conditions.

The Suptig 60 LED Video Light boasts a lumen output of up to 500 lumens, a truly remarkable feature for its size and purpose. The three brightness levels - low (150 lumens), medium (300 lumens), and high (500 lumens) - offer a range of lighting possibilities for any underwater or low-light situation.

One of the most memorable experiences I had with this flashlight was during a snorkeling expedition in the Maldives. As I descended into the turquoise waters, the ambient light began to fade, but with the Suptig 60 LED on its highest setting, the vivid colors of the aquatic life were beautifully captured in my shots. The light revealed the intricate details of the reef, from the multicolored corals to the tiny, curious fish hiding within.

Moreover, it's not just the robust lighting performance that sets this model apart; its battery life also exceeded my expectations. The flashlight operated for an incredible 6-8 hours on a single charge, depending on the brightness level used. This longevity was particularly useful during an extended cave diving excursion in Mexico. The flashlight remained reliable and consistent, even in the most demanding conditions.

Finally, the Suptig 60 LED Video Light's compatibility is also worth mentioning. It is equipped with a universal mounting system, making it suitable for various camera types including GoPros, DSLRs, and other action cameras. This versatility is greatly appreciated, as it allows me to use the same high-quality light source across multiple devices.

For those who often find themselves shooting in challenging lighting conditions or underwater, the Suptig 60 LED Video Light is an invaluable tool. It delivers impressive performance, great versatility, and excellent battery life, all in a compact and durable package. Its capabilities have broadened my photographic horizons and enriched the quality of my work.

Features That Make It Better Than Other Action Camera Flashlights

  • Waterproof: This video light is waterproof up to 164 feet, making it ideal for underwater adventures and diving.
  • Brightness: With 60 high-quality LEDs, this video light offers bright and even illumination, helping you to capture high-quality footage in low-light situations.
  • Adjustable brightness: The video light has three brightness settings, giving you the flexibility to choose the right level of illumination for your needs.
  • Wide compatibility: The Suptig Portable Video Light is compatible with a range of different action cameras, including GoPro and other popular brands.
  • Durable: Made from high-quality materials, this video light is built to last and can withstand the rigours of outdoor adventures.
  • Lightweight and portable: This video light is small and lightweight, making it easy to carry with you on the go.
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PICTRON VL28 LED Light - Lightest On This List

Though I only managed to use it a couple of times so far, I am already loving it.

The adaptable color temperature range is definitely one of my favorite features. I mean, it's not every day that you come across a lighting solution that offers such flexibility. And the fact that you can control it wirelessly just adds to the convenience.

It may not be as well-known as some of the other options out there, but in my opinion, it's just as good if not better. And the fact that it's compatible with various accessories makes it a great option for a range of shooting scenarios. Plus, the lightweight and portable design is a huge plus for me as I'm always on the go.

The PICTRON VL28 LED Light offers a color temperature range from a warm 3200K to a cool 5600K. This feature has allowed me to creatively control the color and mood of my shots in an intuitive and versatile way. I remember photographing a sunset in Maui with this light. The ability to adjust the color temperature helped me capture the warm tones of the sunset beautifully, while still maintaining good illumination on my subject in the foreground.

One of the standout features of the PICTRON VL28 is its wireless control. It comes with a remote control that allows you to adjust both the color temperature and brightness from a distance. This came in particularly handy during a wildlife shoot when I needed to maintain a safe distance from the animals while still being able to adjust my light settings.

Its compatibility with various accessories makes it extremely versatile. It's been easily integrated into my existing photography setup, and its universal attachment fits snugly on my DSLR, mirrorless, and even action cameras.

Weighing just under 150 grams, the PICTRON VL28 is a delight for photographers on the move. The lightness was a noticeable advantage during a recent hiking trip in the Rockies, where every ounce in my backpack mattered. Despite its weight, it offers a potent light output of 2300 lumens, which is more than enough for most outdoor and low-light scenarios.

In terms of battery life, the PICTRON VL28 performed admirably, providing 2 hours of continuous light at maximum output on a single charge. While this may not seem like much compared to some other models, it's more than sufficient for my burst shooting sessions.

Features That Make It Better Than Other Action Camera Flashlights

  • Adaptable color temperature range: The VL28 allows you to adjust the color temperature between 3200K and 5600K, giving you greater control over the warmth or coolness of your lighting.
  • Wireless remote control: The included remote control lets you adjust the brightness and color temperature of the VL28 from up to 30 meters away, making it easier to adjust your lighting setup without having to physically touch the light.
  • Multiple power options: The VL28 can be powered by a rechargeable battery, USB-C cable, or even a power bank, giving you flexibility when it comes to power sources.
  • Compatibility with various accessories: The VL28 is compatible with a variety of accessories, including cold shoe mounts, tripods, and camera cages, allowing you to customize your lighting setup to fit your specific needs.
  • Lightweight and portable design: The VL28 is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around with you on shoots without weighing you down.
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Elgato Key Light Mini - Good For Watching Movies At Home As Well

This little powerhouse packs a serious punch when it comes to lighting. It's compact size doesn't mean it lacks power - in fact, it offers 1100 lux of brightness, which is an intense amount for a mini light like this! And let me tell you, the convenience factor is unreal. The onboard controls and easy-to-use technology make it a breeze to adjust the brightness and color temperature to fit any lighting situation.

One thing that was such a pleasant surprise for me was that this light is available at most major retailers. So you don't have to go hunting around for it - just grab it when you're out shopping! And the best part? It's compatible with PC, Android, iPhones, and Mac devices. That means anyone could benefit from this amazing little light - no matter what type of device they're using.

I first experienced the Elgato Key Light Mini while setting up a cozy movie night at home. As soon as I turned it on, the room was transformed into a cinematic oasis. The 1100 lux of brightness provided ample illumination, creating a vibrant and immersive viewing environment. The ability to adjust the color temperature further enhanced the atmosphere, allowing me to customize the lighting to match the mood of the film.

The convenience of the onboard controls and user-friendly technology impressed me. With a simple twist of a knob or a tap on the control panel, I could easily adjust the brightness and color temperature to achieve the perfect lighting setup. Whether I wanted a warm, cozy glow for a romantic comedy or a cool, crisp illumination for an action-packed thriller, the Elgato Key Light Mini delivered without fail.

What sets this mini light apart is its availability at major retailers. It's such a relief to know that I can find it easily, without having to search extensively or wait for online orders to arrive. This accessibility makes it a practical choice for anyone looking to enhance their lighting setup without the hassle of specialty stores or long shipping times.

Another impressive aspect of the Elgato Key Light Mini is its wide compatibility with various devices. Whether you're using a PC, Android smartphone, iPhone, or Mac, this light seamlessly integrates into your setup. This versatility ensures that anyone can benefit from its exceptional lighting capabilities, regardless of their preferred device or platform.

Features That Make It Better Than Other Action Camera Flashlights

  • The Key Light Mini is a versatile and compact lighting solution.
  • It is designed to help users shine even in low light conditions.
  • It offers onboard controls and easy-to-use technology.
  • The flashlight can be used on PC, Android, iPhones, and Mac devices.
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    ULANZI VL49 2000mAh LED Video Light

    I've come up with some juicy details about this amazing action camera flashlight that I've been using lately. Firstly, it's super small and lightweight, making it easy to take with me wherever I go. And despite its size, it's incredibly effective at providing just the right amount of light for my vlogging needs.

    The 5500K colour temperature is perfect for capturing natural-looking footage, and it works beautifully with my DSLR camera systems, including my trusty Canon and Sony DSLRs. And even though the battery is a bit smaller than the Suptig video light, it charges fully in just two hours and lasts for up to five hours on the lowest brightness setting.

    The light is also adjustable, so I can tweak the colour temperature to my liking. And with 49 LED lights and a CRI of 95+, my post-grading workload has been greatly reduced. Plus, the three extensible connection joints mean I can add even more lights to the system if I need to.

    Features That Make It Better Than Other Action Camera Flashlights

    • 5500K color temperature that mimics natural sunlight, making it ideal for vloggers and photographers who want their content to look crisp and clear
    • 49 LED lights with a CRI of 95+, which significantly reduces the need for post-grading and ensures that your content looks as good as possible from the start
    • Adjustable color temperature, so you can tweak the settings to match your needs and preferences
    • Multiple temperature control settings and five brightness levels, giving you complete control over your lighting situation
    • 2000mAh lithium battery that provides plenty of power, with a two-hour charging time and a two-hour maximum operating time at maximum brightness
    • Three extendable connection joints that allow you to add more lights to the system, increasing its capacity and versatility
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    Conclusion + A Few Tips On Choosing The Optimal Flashlight For Your Action Camera

    Brightness

    First off, brightness is a biggie. I'm talking major. You want a flashlight with a high lumen output so that it can capture clear footage in low-light conditions. Trust me, you don't want to be fumbling around with a dim flashlight when you're trying to get the perfect shot.

    Beam Distance

    Next up is beam distance. This refers to how far the flashlight can illuminate in front of it. If you want to capture footage from a distance, you'll want to look for a flashlight with a long beam distance. It's all about getting the right shot, ya know?

    Battery Life

    Battery life is another key factor to consider. You don't want to be caught with a dead flashlight in the middle of an important shoot. Look for a flashlight with long battery life if you plan to use it for extended periods of time. That way, you'll be able to keep shooting without any interruptions.

    Durability

    Durability is also important, especially if you're planning on taking your action camera flashlight on the go. It needs to be able to withstand the wear and tear of outdoor use. Look for one that's waterproof and built to withstand shock and impact. That way, you can keep going even if you accidentally drop it or get caught in a rainstorm.

    Water Resistance

    And finally, if you plan on using your flashlight in wet conditions, such as while diving or during rain, make sure to choose one that's waterproof and can withstand exposure to water. Trust me, you don't want to end up with a soggy flashlight that won't work anymore.

    So there you have it, my top tips for choosing the right action camera flashlight. I've used quite a few in my time, and these factors have always helped me pick the best one for my needs. Happy shooting!

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Action Camera Flashlights

    What are the benefits of Action Camera Flashlights

    How can I make my Action Camera Battery Last Longer

    There are a couple of steps that you can take to make you action camera battery last longer. There is nothing more frustrating than having a battery run out of juice in the middle of your work. So its useful to know what to do to make your battery last as long as possible. Here are a couple of ways of making the battery last as long as possible

    • Lower Resolution and Frame Rate: High video resolutions (like 4K) and high frame rates (like 60fps) use more power. Reducing them to 1080p or 30fps can extend battery life.
    • Turn Off Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS: If you don't need wireless connections or location tracking, turn these features off. They consume extra power even when you're not using them.
    • Disable Extra Features: Features like image stabilization, voice control, or touch screen responsiveness can drain the battery. Only use them if necessary.
    • Use Power Saving Mode: Many cameras have a power-saving mode, which dims the screen and lowers processor usage. Enabling this can help preserve battery life.
    • Keep It Cool: Batteries discharge faster in extreme heat or cold. Try to keep the camera at a moderate temperature.
    • Turn Off the Camera When Not in Use: Instead of keeping the camera on between shots, turn it off. Use quick capture mode, if available, to power on the camera instantly when you start recording.
    • Carry Spare Batteries: Sometimes the best way to extend shooting time is to carry multiple batteries and swap them out when needed
    • Fully Charge Before Use: Make sure your battery is fully charged before you start your session to maximize its runtime
    • Use External Power: If you're filming in a fixed location, consider using an external power source, like a portable power bank, through the camera’s USB port.
    • Firmware Updates: Keep the camera’s firmware up to date. Manufacturers often release updates that optimize battery performance.

    What are the low light settings for action cameras?

    Many cameras, if not all, have settings for low light conditions that improve the video and image quality. These are settings that help the video and photo quality improve when the lighting is not that great. Here are some of these settings that you can adjust to get a better end result in bad lighting

    1. Increase ISO

    • ISO determines the camera's sensitivity to light. For low light, increase the ISO to allow the sensor to capture more light. However, be cautious—higher ISO levels can introduce noise (graininess) into your footage.
    • Recommended: Start at ISO 800–1600 and adjust based on lighting.

    2. Slow Down the Shutter Speed

    • A slower shutter speed allows more light to hit the camera sensor, but it may cause motion blur if you're filming fast-moving objects. It's a trade-off between brightness and motion sharpness.
    • Recommended: 1/30 to 1/60 seconds for low light.

    3. Use a Lower Frame Rate

    • High frame rates (like 60fps or 120fps) require faster shutter speeds, reducing the amount of light captured. Lowering the frame rate to 24fps or 30fps allows more light per frame.
    • Recommended: 24fps or 30fps.

    4. Turn On Low-Light Mode (If Available)

    • Many action cameras have a Low-Light Mode or Auto Low-Light setting, which automatically adjusts the frame rate and other parameters for better performance in low-light environments.
    • Recommended: Enable this mode when shooting in dark conditions.

    5. Open the Aperture (If Adjustable)

    • Some action cameras allow you to adjust the aperture, which controls how much light enters the lens. A wider aperture (lower f-stop number) lets in more light, making it better for low-light conditions.
    • Recommended: Use the widest aperture available (e.g., f/2.8 or lower).

    6. Turn Off Image Stabilization

    • Image stabilization systems (like EIS or OIS) can reduce light sensitivity because they use extra processing power, which might impact performance in low-light conditions. Consider turning it off unless you're recording very shaky footage.

    7. Use ProTune or Manual Settings

    • On cameras like GoPro, ProTune gives you manual control over settings like ISO, shutter speed, and white balance, allowing you to fine-tune the camera for low-light performance.
    • Recommended: Use ProTune or manual settings for more control.

    8. Use External Lighting (If Possible)

    • In very low light, consider using an external light source like an LED light to illuminate your subject, which can dramatically improve the quality of your footage.

    What changes the lighting on a camera?

    There are several factors that may affect the lighting on a camera which in turn affect how well the camera captures light and therefore how good the quality of the image or video turns out. Here are some key factors that change the lighting on a camera

    1. ISO

    • What It Does: ISO adjusts the camera’s sensitivity to light. A higher ISO setting increases sensitivity, allowing the camera to capture more light in low-light conditions.
    • Impact: Raising ISO brightens the image but can introduce noise or graininess. Lowering ISO results in cleaner images but requires more light.
    • Recommendation: Use a low ISO in bright conditions (100-400) and increase it in low-light environments (800-3200).

    2. Aperture (f-stop)

    • What It Does: The aperture controls how much light passes through the lens by adjusting the size of the lens opening. A wider aperture (lower f-stop number, e.g., f/2.8) lets in more light, while a narrower aperture (higher f-stop number, e.g., f/11) reduces light.
    • Impact: A wide aperture brightens the image and creates a shallow depth of field (blurry background), while a narrow aperture darkens the image and increases depth of field (more of the image in focus).
    • Recommendation: Use a wider aperture for low-light situations and portrait photography. Use a narrower aperture for landscape or bright settings.

    3. Shutter Speed

    • What It Does: Shutter speed determines how long the camera’s sensor is exposed to light. A slower shutter speed lets in more light but can cause motion blur, while a faster shutter speed reduces light but freezes motion.
    • Impact: A slower shutter (e.g., 1/30 sec) brightens the image but increases the risk of motion blur. A faster shutter (e.g., 1/1000 sec) darkens the image but sharpens moving subjects.
    • Recommendation: Use a slower shutter in low-light settings when there’s little movement. Use a fast shutter in bright environments or for fast-moving subjects.

    4. Frame Rate (Video Only)

    • What It Does: The frame rate (measured in frames per second, or fps) affects how many frames are captured per second in video. Lower frame rates allow more light per frame, while higher frame rates capture less light.
    • Impact: Lower frame rates (e.g., 24fps) allow more light in, making the footage brighter. Higher frame rates (e.g., 60fps or 120fps) capture less light, darkening the footage.
    • Recommendation: For low-light environments, use 24fps or 30fps. For fast-motion scenes, you may need higher frame rates, but supplement with additional light.

    5. Lighting Conditions and External Light Sources

    • What It Does: The amount of available light (natural or artificial) plays a major role in exposure. In low-light conditions, the camera requires adjustments to ISO, aperture, or shutter speed to compensate.
    • Impact: Adding external light sources, such as LED panels or ring lights, can drastically improve image brightness without needing to adjust camera settings that may degrade image quality (like high ISO).
    • Recommendation: In low-light environments, use external lighting if possible to improve exposure without pushing the camera's settings too high.

    6. White Balance

    • What It Does: White balance adjusts the color temperature of the light in your scene to ensure that whites appear white, and other colors are accurately represented. This doesn’t directly affect brightness but can influence how warm or cool the image appears.
    • Impact: The wrong white balance setting can make an image look too yellow (warm) or too blue (cool), especially under artificial light.
    • Recommendation: Use the appropriate white balance setting (e.g., daylight, tungsten, or custom) to match the light source in your environment.

    7. Filters

    • What It Does: Physical filters, like Neutral Density (ND) filters or polarizers, are attached to the lens to reduce light entering the camera without changing the settings.
    • Impact: ND filters allow for slower shutter speeds or wider apertures in bright conditions by darkening the image, while polarizers reduce glare and enhance contrast.
    • Recommendation: Use ND filters in bright daylight when you want to avoid overexposure.

    8. Exposure Compensation (Auto Mode)

    • What It Does: In automatic modes, exposure compensation allows you to manually adjust the brightness of an image without fully going into manual settings.
    • Impact: Increasing exposure compensation (+EV) brightens the image, while decreasing it (-EV) darkens the image.
    • Recommendation: Use this when shooting in auto or semi-auto modes like aperture priority or shutter priority.

    Do action cameras have flash?

    Some action cameras have basic built in flash lights but most of these lights are not ideal for filming when the light quality is poor. The main reason is that these action cameras are designed to be compact and light to be used in moving conditions. Therefore having a proper flash light built in is not always possible. It is recommended to buy an action camera flashlight as an attachment to help get the best out of poor lighting conditions.