10 Best Overhead Lighting For Art Studio 2024 – Artist’s First Choice

Setting up a new live studio? Then you need the best overhead lighting for art studio.

Whether it is photography, video, sculptures, paintings, or everything at the same time – you need the ideal light system.

Here, we’re going to show you how perfect lighting can help you bring art to life.

And if you’re struggling to find something that meets your demands, then we’ll also help you with that.

We want to make the process easier for you with this article because we know how hard it can be to look through the hundreds of overhead lighting options out there.

Shining a Light on Your Art – Top Picks

So we brought ten of the highest-quality overhead lighting kits. We picked the most reliable, complete, and easy-to-install in the market.

Then we reviewed each one to bring our analysis to you. Here, you’ll learn how each one may help you or not. Want to find out? Then read:

01. StudioFX H9004SB2 2400 Watt Softbox Photo Lighting Kit – Best Lighting For Art Studio

Highlighted Features

• 5500K light temperature
• 20×28 inches softboxes
• 7-feet light stand
• 11,200 lumens
• Back handles

The first studio lighting kit on our list comes from StudioFX. This is a 3-piece system with two softboxes and an overhead boom softbox.

You get constant and natural light. You won’t get the bright white light that blinds you out. But something with a more natural tone.

It works amazingly well with the 4 bulbs on each softbox, with their respective ON/OFF switch so you can manage lumens and intensity as needed.

The system offers 5500k of total light intensity per bulb. And this matches the 2800 lumens per incandescent light. So you can get a total of 11,200 lumens per softbox light up to the max.

There’s something else to consider – an unobtrusive light-stand design that allows excellent lighting without harming comfort.

And it’s large enough for excellent lighting but small enough for easy use with a 20 by 28-inches design.

Every light stand is also 7 feet tall and comes with a sandbag for stability. To make the whole set even better, you get a carrying bag for effortless transport.

There’s nothing about this lighting kit to hate.

 

02. Fovitec 1000W Fluorescent Lighting Kit – Best Natural Light For Art Studio

Highlighted Features

• 45-watts bulbs
• 5500K temperature
• 90 CRI accuracy
• Fluorescent bulbs
• 20×28 inches design

With power and excellent comfort, the Fovitec 1000W fluorescent kit is set to surpass your expectations for Best Overhead Lighting For Art Studio.

It doesn’t matter what you want it for, it is designed to set the quality to the highest level.

You get 5500K of daylight color and a total of 5 lamps with 45 watts each.

Along with a softbox design of 20 by 28 inches, they’re designed to make handling and positioning a piece of cake.

The best about this lighting kit of one piece is how affordable it is. If you’re on a budget and can get the job done with a single light stand – then this will do wonders for you.

With 45-watt fluorescent lamps offering 90+ in CRI color accuracy and 5500K of temperature, you get one of the best artificial lights out there.

“While the power and color clarity is totally worth it, you may not like how hot it gets.

If you’re constantly moving the light stand around to meet your standards, then you may hate this heat.”

Don’t get the largest and trickiest system when a simple and practical light stands can do the job.

That’s precisely what you get with the Fovitec Fluorescent Lighting Kit.

03. Neewer 800W Umbrellas Softbox Continuous Lighting Kit

Highlighted Features

• 7-feet high stands
• 24×24 softboxes
• 5500K temperature
• 45-watts bulbs
• 6×9 background screen

When it comes to quality lighting brands, few match Neewer is reliability and results. And with a set of Umbrellas and light stands like this one – you’re going to simply love it.

What makes this set stand out is the addition of two light stands, two umbrellas, a green screen, two carryings bags, and clamps to keep everything together.

The stands come with 3 legs and can handle a lot of use. They’re well-made and reliable.

You get the same experience with umbrellas, adding the extra reflection ability for perfect illumination.

But the real advantage comes from the quality of the bulbs. You get 45 watts in each, with a total of 4 bulbs per light stand. Along with 5500K of temperature and fluorescent light, you’re set to love this lighting system.

The softboxes are amazing with their 24 by 24 inches design. They’re large enough to direct the light easily and match the 6 by 9 feet Musline backdrop green screen.

You will get a super-effective & complete system for your art studio.

04. Daylight U31375 Artist Studio Lamp and Stand – Best Daylight Lamp For Artists

Highlighted Features

• 7’3” tripod
• Aluminum build
• 32-watts bulb
• 2000 lumens
• 5000K temperature

Probably the simplest yet most effective lamp in the whole list – the Daylight U31375 is a high-end Artist Studio Light that surpasses expectations.

The first thing you’ll notice is how tall the light stand is. You get a 7-feet and 3-inches stand that goes ultra-high.

This is an effective way to direct light more effectively in the studio. And you can cover exactly the area you need.

This matches well with the high-quality bulb you get. It is 32-watts energy-efficient model that can offer an excellent 5000K daylight tone.

Along with the 2000-lumen capacity, it will light a wide area without even trying.

The lamp is also made of brushed aluminum. So it is not only light and easy to manage but highly resilient. You can expect it to last a lifetime.

“While the construction is excellent for handling & durability, it is not the most stable. You’ll have to be extra careful with it, or else you’re likely to see it falling consistently.”

And to make it even better, you get an adjustable clip-on design so you can adjust the light at the ideal height.

No need to stay with a fixed lamp that makes it tricky to operate. This one is super versatile.

05. Linco Lincostore Flora X 2000 Watt Photo Studio Lighting Kit

Highlighted Features

• 6400K temperature
• 40-watts bulb
• Accurate CRI
• 3-second setup
• Anti-skid feet

Versatility at its best – that’s what you get with the Linco 2000-watt Studio Lighting Kit.

You get several pieces with this set. One would be the Flora X softbox stands.

It makes height adjustments easy and allows maximum convenience with a large firm handle and an anti-skid design. Add the E27 ceramic base, and it has no competitor.

There’s also a Flora X Easy Softbox with backdrop stand support. It comes with a snow-white diffuser and an auto pop-up system. No need to waste time assembling it or adjusting it.

To make it better, you get the chance to place it over the recording area. In contrast with other models that work from the angels, this one works directly from up top.

And what truly sets this lighting kit apart is the bulb quality. The CRI is supper accurate, offers 6400K of temperature, and comes with four 40-watts bulbs.

Sure enough, the whole system is fluorescent, makes no noise, and never flickers.

If that seems like enough, then you’ll love the bags for easy carrying and the 3-second setup design. There’s nothing this kit leaves out.

06. Fancierstudio 2400 Watt Professional Video Lighting Kit

Highlighted Features

• 2400 watts
• 16×24 inches
• 5500K temperature
• Carrying case
• 7×10 feet background

If you’re not going for large kits, then you can always get a decent yet simple option like the Fancierstudio Professional Lighting Kit.

You get three different stands with it. One would be the 16 by 24 inches softbox for hair-light.

That’s an excellent piece to change different angles and illuminate from up to. For those who love maximum clarity and natural lighting, this will come as a charm.

Then you get two 16 by 24 inches standard softboxes. They provide a light design and extra stability.

If you’re looking to illuminate from the angles at a perfect level – then you’ll love this setup.

“The setup is top-notch for its performance. But when it comes to assembling it – then you’ll hate it.

The instructions are poor, and the items are not easy to match. But for the cost, it is understandable.”

Sure enough, the bulbs on each softbox won’t disappoint. You get a total of 2400 watts in the entire system, offering about 5500K temperature each.

They are decently well-made to last enough time while providing natural lighting indoors.

Last but not least, you get a carrying case so you can bring the whole set anywhere you go. If that’s not a sign of a quality product, then nothing is.

07. GSKAIWEN Photography Studio LED Lighting Kit

Highlighted Features

• 2-meter adjustments
• 5500K temperature
• Adjustable intensity
• Flat LEDs
• Extendable tripods

An umbrella stand is not always your best bet. With the GSKAIWEN Photography LED Lighting Kit, you can get an excellent lighting system without relying on umbrella diffusers.

It is a set of flat LED lights that provide ultra-clear and soft illumination. If you hate the overly bright and annoying artificial light from other systems, this one will fit like a gem.

Another exciting part of this lighting kit is the 2-meter adjustment system and excellent angle swivel.

You can move the LED lights up and down as necessary so you can light up your project from your preferred angle.

Whether it is achieving maximum white clarity on your art or simply adding a natural skin color to a person, this one works like a gem.

And you only get two LED light stands, which add up to its convenience. You can use it almost anywhere, including indoors, outdoors, and so on.

This is easily one of the most versatile options in the market. And what’s even better, it is amazingly cheap for the quality.

08. MOUNTDOG Photography Continuous Softbox Lighting Kit

Highlighted Features

• 210-degree swivel
• 20×28 inches design
• 80-inches height
• 5500K bulb
• 135-watts

MOUNTDOG is the best lighting brand for people on a budget. And this Continous Softbox Lighting Kit will let you know why.

You get a 5500K photo bulb at 135 watts that provide extreme brightness.

The system will help you light up large areas with a single bulb, so you get excellent results without even trying.

No need to adjust the brightness or dim the light – just set it up, and that’s it.

“It lights up really well, but the particle film on the reflector is not the best. While the whole softbox works well enough, you may not like how dim the light is.”

The light stand is decently large as well. With a total height of 80 inches, it manages to reach high enough so you can light up your art without a problem.

With a top lamp holder with a 210-degree adjustable swivel, you can also change the direction and illuminate wherever you want.

You won’t have any problem handling the piece either. It is 20 by 28 inches in size and boasts an aluminum construction.

The whole softbox allows secure handling without breaking or tearing it apart.

And if all that wasn’t enough, you still get a carrying bag so you can bring it around when needed.

09. Neewer 5600K USB LED Video Light

Highlighted Features

• 5600K temperature
• USB connector
• Dimmable LED
• 20×45 inches softbox
• Multiple colors

Want super-bright LED lights? Then you shouldn’t hesitate about choosing the Neewer USB LED Kit.

As soon as you set your eyes on it, you’ll know this is not like all other kits.

This one comes with two USB light panels with their USB cable, and two tripod stands. You get a pretty convenient set that’s easy to set up and enjoy.

The LED lights have a dimmable system. You can adjust the brightness of the bulbs as necessary.

And they offer excellent temperature at 5600K. That’s a superb warm light for those who want maximum illumination.

Let’s not forget you can still adjust the tripods with an extension stick. It goes from 20 to 45 inches – so they match everyone’s demands.

What truly sets this lighting kit apart is the shooting effect. You can make the lights flash in 4 color filters, so you can enjoy a unique finish on your art projects.

Whether you want them for an art studio, for YouTube recording, or even just to place on your bedroom as lighting – this kit works like no other.

And it offers the versatility and ease of you won’t get anywhere else.

10. Linco Lincostore AM169 Photo Video Studio Light Kit

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Highlighted Features

• 77×78 background
• 32-inches umbrellas
• 77-inches high stands
• Selfie stick set
• 440-watt output

We wanted to finish this list going high in quality – so we had to pick the AM169 kit from Linco.

This is a 400-watt output system that provides professional-level photo-video lighting quality.

You won’t find a single thing about this set of umbrellas and softboxes to complain about.

The reflector softboxes, for example, come with a piece of white fabric for further reflection.

You get a super-bright experience that matches top-notch temperature & brightness.

The 32-inches soft umbrellas add high reflection. You can make even the darkest of rooms look outstanding with the ideal positioning of these umbrellas.

That’s not all, though. You also get a 77 by 78 inches background system.

It comes in green, white, and black so you can set up your studio amazingly well.

“The background system is excellent for the size. However, it is put together so weakly that if it doesn’t fall after the slightest of touch – then you’re lucky. Get some extra clamps to reinforce it.”

Last but not least, you get a 77-inch high Zenith light stand.

Along with a selfie-stick system and carrying bag – this kit will surpass even the highest of expectations.

 

What to Consider of Best Overhead Lighting For Art Studio

For those who are truly interested in the best overhead lighting kit for their art studio, nothing will help them as much as learning about their kits before choosing.

Here, we’re going to show the most important factors to consider so you can learn as much about the right lighting kit as possible:

01. Light Intensity

The light intensity refers to how bright and how much light you can get from the lighting system.

Here, you will have to consider two significant factors: watts and lumens.

The watts refer mostly to how much power the bulbs need to power up. This will give you an idea of how much energy you’ll need to power up the lighting kit.

However, it can also give you an idea of how bright and intense the light can be.

A standard watt measurement would be 40 watts. But bulbs with 35 watts or those with 45 watts are also ideal.

Some bulbs can go as high as 100 watts or even more. Those will be ultra-bright. Yet, they can also work for large reflectors.

Second, you have lumens. This measures the overall brightness of the light. We usually recommend bulbs with at least 2000 lumens for the best experience.

Some bulbs can go as low as 1680 – and that wouldn’t be too bad either. Over 5000 lumens would be too bright for a studio kit.

So, if you want a decent intensity – go for bulbs with suitable watt measurements and a high enough lumen count.

02. Light Temperature & Color

The temperature of a lighting kit will tell you the color of the light. Some lights look like a sunny day, others look like an overcast day, and you may find some that look like a combination of both.

This temperature in light is measured in Kelvins (K). You will have to pick something between 3000K and 6000K depending on how warm or cool you want the light to be.

For example, a warm light looks orange. Just like the sun, these lights offer a yellowish touch to the surfaces it is used over.

So you get that kind of result. These lights are usually called warm lights, and they offer between 5000K and 6500K.

If you want something cooler (like an overcast day), then you’ll go for a light that offers less than 4000K. That will be ideal in case you prefer blue or white light instead of an orange tone.

For artwork that has a lot of white color on it – a blue/cool light below 4000K would be your best bet.

In case you prefer something slightly warm but not too warm, then the range between 4000K and 5000K can be an excellent choice.

These lights are not necessarily orangey but aren’t white either. So you get sort of a dusky tone – not too warm but not too white either.

For maximum precision in this factor, consider the number of CRI. We recommend CRIs over 90 for the best color & temperature precision.

03. Stand Build & Design

Few things matter as much as the construction of the stands or reflectors, as well as their design.

Here, we recommend aluminum over other materials. This ensures light and easy-to-handle stands.

But for the best experience, consider those with sandbags for stability and well-made design.

With proper design, you’re likely to find it even easier to use and more reliable in the long run.

04. Stand Size & Adjustments

The size is also important, some reflector stands can go up to 7 feet and more. That’s about 84 inches.

But some of them can be pretty small – as tiny as 40 inches or even less.

You want something decently high for your needs. So don’t hesitate to go for the higher ones if you need them. Otherwise, sticking to a small stand can be an excellent choice.

Still, don’t forget about adjustments. Even if it is high, you want it to be easy to direct to the right place.

For that, chose those with handles in the back so you can adjust them at different angles.

It should also offer the chance to move up and down in height.

Types of Lights For Art Studio

There are many different lights available. Depending on what you pick, you may get a different result. Here’s a brief explanation of each:

01. Incandescent

This is the standard bulb we know of. Most lighting kits nowadays don’t come with an incandescent bulb. But some do. For those kits that do, you’ll experience the brightest light out there.

If you get one of these lights, you’ll see how the light is not white exactly, but more yellowish.

At the same time, they are super inefficient, as they consume a lot of energy to produce little light.

02. Halogen

A halogen would be a little more efficient than a standard incandescent. These offer a white light in most cases, and it provides top-notch brightness.

What makes halogen an excellent choice is that they work almost as well as incandescent when it comes to brightness, but they consume half the energy.

03. LED

If you want the brightness of incandescent light with the efficiency of a halogen bulb, then you’ll go for a LED system.

A high-quality LED bulb can offer way better brightness than any incandescent and still consume as little as a halogen.

If you want the best efficiency and use of resources to provide light, then LED is your best bet.

Just remember that these can be pretty expensive. But they’re also the most durable.

04. Fluorescent

Have you seen those large tubes on ceilings? Well, those are fluorescent lights.

These lights are decently bright and perfect for giving a semi-natural white tone to the area.

However, they’re usually large and not the most common among studio lighting kits.

They’re decently efficient and provide excellent brightness. However, they’re still behind LED on both.

05. Compact Fluorescent Lamp (CFL)

If you want the efficiency of a LED but with the performance of fluorescent light, then a CFL is your best bet.

It is the same thing but in a smaller bulb. This is more common to find on studio lighting kits because of the size. If you prefer the performance of fluorescent, then a CFL may be your best bet.

What is The Best Overhead Lighting Studio For Beginners?

If you don’t want to waste any of your time and get straight to the point, we recommend the StudioFX H9004SB2 2400 Watt Softbox Photo Lighting Kit.

It is the most practical, complete, sufficiently bright, and durable option. On top of that, it comes at a very decent cost.

Are LED Lights Better Than CFL Lights?

It depends on what you’re looking for. In terms of efficiency, LED lights are a lot better.

But if you’re looking for brightness and ideal color/temperature, then CFL will be your best bet.

At the same time, LED lights are more durable, but CFL lights are typically more affordable. Choose accordingly.

So we’re showing you everything about products from StudioFX, Linco, Neewer, Fovitec, and Fancierstudio plus others. If you’re eager to find out – then heat down to learn!

FAQs

We didn’t want you to go pick the next overhead lighting kit without first relieving some of your doubts.

That’s why we bring the following questions with their corresponding answers so you can find out more:

How do you use overhead lighting for the art studio?

When setting up overhead lighting for an art studio, it’s important to consider the type of lighting that will work best for your needs, as well as the placement and intensity of the lights.

Experiment with different angles and configurations to find the optimal setup for your workspace, and consider using additional types of lighting, such as floor lamps or desk lamps, to supplement your overhead lighting.

Ultimately, the key is to create an effective and functional lighting setup that allows you to create your best work, while also considering factors such as brightness, color temperature, and placement.

Does it take too long to install an overhead lighting kit?

The time it takes to install an overhead lighting kit can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the installation, the size of the room, and the skill level of the person doing the installation.

For a simple installation of a basic overhead lighting kit, it may only take a few hours for an experienced electrician or DIY enthusiast to complete the installation. This typically involves shutting off power to the area where the lighting will be installed, mounting the lighting fixture to the ceiling, connecting the wiring, and securing the fixture in place.

However, if the installation involves more complex wiring or the need to run new wiring to the lighting fixture, it can take longer and may require the assistance of a licensed electrician.

Additionally, if the installation requires modifications to the ceiling or other parts of the room, such as adding new electrical outlets or changing the layout of the space, it can add to the time and complexity of the installation.

How do you install the overhead lighting for the art studio?

You just need to set up the kit or individual softbox. Then make sure it is connected to the proper outlet.

Some come with USB connectors, others come with standard 120v inputs.

Finish by just turning them on and placing them in the right place. That’s it – you’ve successfully installed overhead lighting.

Can I install the overhead lighting for the art studio in my bedroom?

It is possible to install the overhead lighting for an art studio in your bedroom, but there are several factors you should consider before doing so.

First, you should make sure that the wiring in your bedroom is capable of handling the additional load of the lighting. You may need to hire an electrician to install a new circuit or upgrade your existing wiring to support the additional lighting.

Second, you should consider the size and layout of your bedroom and whether it can accommodate the additional lighting without becoming too bright or overwhelming. You may want to consider installing dimmer switches or using different types of lighting to create the desired ambiance and functionality for your art studio.

Finally, you should also consider any building codes or regulations that may apply to the installation of overhead lighting in a bedroom. Depending on where you live, there may be specific requirements for the type of lighting fixtures and wiring that can be used in a residential bedroom.

Is it expensive to maintain overhead lighting in an art studio?

Not really. You will only need to replace the light bulbs once they burn out, and that usually happens after 5,000 to 10,000 hours of use.

The cost to maintain overhead lighting in an art studio can vary depending on several factors, including the type of lighting used, the frequency of use, and the cost of electricity in your area.

LED lights, for example, are typically more expensive upfront than other types of lighting, but they are more energy-efficient and require less maintenance, making them a cost-effective option over the long term. Other types of lighting, such as incandescent bulbs, may be cheaper upfront but require more frequent replacement and can add up to higher maintenance costs over time.

The frequency of use can also impact the maintenance costs of overhead lighting in an art studio. If the lights are used frequently or for extended periods, they may require more frequent replacement and maintenance than lights that are used less frequently.

Finally, the cost of electricity in your area can also impact the overall cost of maintaining overhead lighting in an art studio. Areas with higher electricity rates will naturally have higher operating costs for any type of lighting.

Conclusion

If you’re setting up a new art studio at home and need quality lighting – then you won’t find any better options.

With the best overhead lighting for art studio reviews in this article, you’ll have enough to pick your ideal kit.

Just follow our recommendations and buying advice. Then getting the perfect set will be a piece of cake. So don’t waste your time and choose now!

If these weren’t enough, check out some other picks from Amazon also: