PIKA200 Group Test by Ian Pack

"My PIKA200 battery flash from Pixapro in England arrived via Mark Ratcliffe last week (don't ask, long story, thanks Mark!) so before venturing out I decided to conduct a controlled comparative test.

The mains flash was included as this is a “portable” known quantity which is used at locations where main power is available. In 2010 I moved to the Elinchrom Quadra system in view of the true portability and additional 1 ƒ/stop of power. I began using the Godox speedlites last year in view of the lithium-ion battery which gives a high number of flashes without the need for a external battery pack, unlike hot shoe flash from the camera manufacturers and many independent makes. In the UK battery flash means that a Portable Appliance Test (PAT) certificate isn’t needed.‚Ä®‚Ä®

I have to confess to being surprised by the results of my controlled output tests - yes, I’d expect the Quadra at 400 w/s to give a higher ƒ/number, but not the PIKA200 - I think this is related to the shape of the flash tube and position within attached modifiers giving a more efficient spread of light.

Sizes of kit in the image above are all proportionate.

I'll now be using the PIKA200s on a regular basis along with a Godox Speedlite to make a very portable & lightweight, mobile 3 point flash/strobe lighting kit.

That's it for now and don't forget if you really enjoy lighting to visit and join The LIGHT Side - a place to learn, be mentored, nurtured and learn about lighting, lighting and photography, whatever your level or experience.

*Please be aware these figures may vary

Credit: Ian Pack "