Optically precise modular fixture series designed for targeted micro-illumination, specialized in high-detail close-ups and product photography.
Technical Specifications
The Dedolight system consists of interchangeable modules: DedoLED (LED variant) or Dedo 400/575W halogen lamp, combined with various optical attachments. The base lens is high-quality with minimal aberrations.
The DedoLED produces 5000-8000 Lux at 1 meter distance in focused mode. The color temperature is optionally 3200K (halogen), 5600K (LED), or blue for special effects. The optical precision is unparalleled – the lens creates almost perfectly parallel light beams.
Modularly interchangeable: various lens diameters (small 28mm to large 90mm), color filters, diffusion, gobo slits for light painting. Dimensions: compact, 150-200mm length, weight 1-2 kg (lamp head). Power consumption:
- DedoLED: 75-150W depending on the light source
- 400W Halogen: 400W direct
Heat development is moderate for the light output – halogen produces concentrated heat radiation.
History & Development
Dedolight was founded in 1995 by August Dieckmann and specialized in optically precise micro-lighting. Originally developed for photo professionals, the system also became popular in cinematography from 2000 onwards.
The introduction of LED variants (2012) made the system thermally practical for longer shoots. Modularity became the core of the business model – photographers and DPs collected sets of various attachments and lens combinations.
Today, Dedolight specializes in high-end product photography, beauty cinematography, and detail-oriented documentary work.
Practical Use in Film
Dedolight was originally more of a photography tool, but from 2010 onwards it was used in cinematic productions for close-up details. In Werner Herzog's "Aguirre, the Wrath of God," Dedolights would have been ideal for the extreme facial close-ups (historically impossible, but conceptually relevant).
In modern beauty and fashion films, DP Richard Greatrex uses Dedolight systems for lip, eye, and skin detail shots, where the optical precision creates psychological intimacy. The extreme level of detail becomes a visual storytelling tool.
Dedolight is standard in high-end product photography but is selectively used in film production for specific detail scenes.
Variants & Alternatives
Dedolight produces the DedoLED and classic halogen variants. Small LED alternatives like Litemo or Aputure 120D Micro offer compactness but less optical precision. Fluorescent alternatives like Small-Size Kino Flo require more space for equivalent precision.
The main advantage of Dedolight remains its optical purity for extreme close-ups and its modular flexibility for micro-adjustments without repositioning.