Angler Mini CatchLight Reflector 2023 REVIEW

The Mini CatchLight Reflector by Angler creates a glamorous lighting effect in a compact package.

One of the trickiest lighting effects to capture as a photographer is the eye light. Because it can be so difficult to photograph naturally, many photographers will add the lighting effect when they edit the photos as a glint or a spark. The lighting technique helps to draw attention to a subject’s eyes, which can sometimes be lost in a scene.

Even though visual effects can be utilized quite easily, I do prefer to utilize a catchlight reflector when possible. One of my favorites has been the Angler CatchLight Reflector, but it is quite large and a little tedious to set-up. Thankfully, Angler also created a smaller version of the reflector — the Angler Mini CatchLight Reflector.

About Angler Mini CatchLight Reflector

The Angler Mini CatchLight Reflector V2 is a versatile solution to lighting problems, providing a consistent effect with a 37″ wide arc-shaped modifier that removes shadows without adding another source. It features a tightly-stretched reflective silver material, an included bracket to fit standard light stands, and a carrying case for storage and transport. The reflector creates natural-looking reflections in the subject’s eyes and can be used with any light source.

The Angler Mini CatchLight Reflector is a smaller version of Angler’s full-sized CatchLight Reflector, perfect for location work, small studios, and on-the-go photography. It minimizes or eliminates harsh shadows for a stunning, radiant effect, and delivers a clamshell lighting effect that accentuates beautiful skin tones and textures. An optional reversible white/soft gold fabric is available separately.

Main Features

• The 37″ width of the silver reflector has a concave curve that follows the contour of the eye and creates an attractive, uninterrupted, arc-like reflection
• The CatchLight V2’s Swivel/Tilt Bracket can be angled to achieve the required degree of fill light
• Fits standard 5/8″ light stands
• Captivating, Seamless Catchlights
• Ideal for fashion, beauty, and portrait shooters, the CatchLight V2 fills in the harsh shadows created by lights angled down toward the subject from overhead, slightly flattening the light quality, yet maintaining a striking three-dimensional quality
• The CatchLight V2 can be used with any light source, be it continuous tungsten, LED light, flash, or even outdoors with ambient sunlight
• Fills in Harsh Overhead Shadows
• Reflective Silver Fabric
• White/Gold Fabric Available Separately
• The silver fabric reflector features zippered closures that add tension to created a wrinkle-free reflective surface
• Attach More Fabrics with Touch Fasteners
• The CatchLight V2 sets up in minutes and breaks down just as quickly for storage and transport in its included bag
• Vertical rods stretch the fabric to achieve optimal performance and consistency

Pricing & Availability

The Angler Mini CatchLight Reflector has a list price of $169.99, but is being offered for $84.99 (at the time of publishing) from B&H Photo.

User Experience

My user experience with the Angler Mini CatchLight was very similar to its larger counterpart, but it was much easier. Just like the full size CatchLight, the Mini comes in its own travel bag. But, unlike the large CatchLight, the Mini only has two vertical rods and two main tubes. This makes assembly much easier and less time consuming. With the large CatchLight, I had some issues fumbling with it but the Mini was set up with no issues quickly and easily.

I had the opportunity to photograph two teenagers (children of a friend of mine) in a unique fall setting. The idea was to capture some nice senior-style pictures of the kids as a gift to their parents. So, I took some interesting shots on-location in this wooded area and used the Mini CatchLight for some close-up portraits of them.

Given our location — wooded clearing on an overcast day — I sort of had my work cut out for me when it came to the reflector. I was able to catch some natural light through the trees and I supplemented with the Godox AD400 Pro with a soft box modifier attached. This helped me achieve the lighting effect I was going for with the CatchLight and made for some nice photos of the kids.

In my review of the original CatchLight, I mention how when the reflector is set up it is nearly 6 feet in length and that using it for on-location productions is quite cumbersome. Well, the design of the Mini CatchLight takes care of this issue as it is only 37 inches in length — or a little over 3 feet long. That makes it much more efficient for location shoots.

I will say that if you are looking for a fuller lighting effect, the larger CatchLight will achieve that look for you. The large reflector is not only able to provide the eye light, but it is also able to fill in shadows under the subject’s neck and around the face. The Mini CatchLight can do that to a certain extent, but it’s not quite as full. It does do a great job of providing extra fill light from beneath and providing the eye light for one or two subjects at a time. The large CatchLight could work for more that just two subjects due to its size.

Why is it Unique?

It’s the size that sets the Angler Mini CatchLight Reflector apart from its competitors. There are several different brands of curved reflectors but they are all large and designed to be used more in a studio than on-location. The Mini CatchLight has the unique feature of being smaller and easier to transport from place to place.

Conclusion

Angler’s Mini CatchLight Reflector is a must-have tool for any photographer, but especially those who shoot on location. It’s the perfect addition to any photographer’s kit, as it provides light control, reduces reflections, and adds a professional touch to any photograph. The Mini CatchLight Reflector is lightweight and easy to transport, making it ideal for photographers who are constantly on the move. Its versatility allows it to be used in a variety of ways, such as for fill light, to create a soft focus effect, or to warm up subjects. The Mini CatchLight Reflector is an essential piece of equipment that allows photographers to capture stunning images and create beautiful photographs.

For more details, visit ANGLER.