Profoto A2

The Profoto A2 is a powerful lens-sized light that’s portable and perfect for professionals who travel a lot. Hannah Rooke takes a closer look

- Hannah Rooke

Has it really been six years since Profoto released the original Profoto A1 on-camera flash? Since the A1 was launched back in 2017, the Swedish company, best known for manufacturing high-end studio lights, has been developing a more travel-friendly range of flash heads, including this impressive Profoto A2. It’s no bigger than a standard 24-70mm lens, but don’t let the size of this light put you off – it has a power output of 100W so it’s also incredibly powerful. It also has the same distinct, high-end finish as all Profoto lights.

The Profoto A2 is aimed at the travelling photographer. Packing the best of what Profoto currently has to offer in a more compact body than the previous models, the A2 is a comfortable alternative for anyone who considers the B10X or B10X Plus too big. The biggest differences are the amount of power it delivers, its size and the ability to adjust modelling light temperature.

The Profoto A2’s size is both a key feature and a unique selling point. The 100W output is impressive for such a tiny flash and it comes with a folding stand adapter so it can be easily stored away. Also included in the box is a carry case with a handle, however, most photographers would probably opt to ditch the case for shoots and keep it in a rucksack, just like you would with your lenses. The other key feature is the A2’s super-fast recycle times, regardless of what power setting you’re using, meaning that you should never miss a shot while it recharges. The colour accuracy is remarkable – in total, I shot three different sets of photos to test the lights and, out of over 300 photos, there was only one misfire where the photo was overexposed.