Aputure LED panel with 256 SMD-LEDs in 15×15 cm format, delivers 12,000 lux at 1m, weighs 850g, battery-powered.
Technical Details
The Velvet Mini operates with 256 individual SMD LEDs distributed on a 15x15 cm circuit board. At full power, it achieves an illuminance of 12,000 lux at a distance of one meter. The unit weighs 850 grams and measures 19x19x4.5 cm. Power is supplied via V-Mount or Gold Mount batteries, or alternatively via a 48V DC power supply. An integrated cooling system with passive heat dissipation prevents overheating during continuous operation. Dimming is stepless from 0-100% without color temperature shift.
History & Development
Aputure introduced the Velvet Mini in 2019 as a compact version of the larger Velvet Light series. Development began in 2018 in response to the growing demand for mobile, battery-powered LED panels for documentary work and low-budget productions. In 2020, Aputure expanded the series with the even smaller Velvet Micro. The original Velvet technology is based on research into the uniform light distribution of large-area LED arrays.
Practical Application in Film
The Velvet Mini is particularly suitable for portrait shots in tight spaces where larger softboxes cannot be used. Documentary filmmakers use it as a mobile key light for interviews, as it operates independently of the mains due to battery power. In feature film productions, it often serves as a subtle fill light or for illuminating product placements. Its low profile allows for use on cramped sets or as hidden light behind objects. Disadvantages include limited light output for longer distances and a fixed color temperature without bi-color functionality.
Comparison & Alternatives
Unlike traditional Fresnel spotlights, the Velvet Mini exclusively produces soft light without the ability to focus. Competing models such as the Litepanels Gemini 1x1 or the Kino Flo Celeb 200 offer similar light quality at larger dimensions. Modern alternatives include the Aputure AL-M9 for even more mobile use or the Velvet Light 1 for higher light output. For bi-color applications, recourse to other manufacturers such as Arri (SkyPanel S30-C) or Litepanels remains necessary.