Let There be Light – the Godox Lux Junior – Part I

Retro Flash:

The Godox Lux Junior is a retro flash, and retro has been making a comeback for a while now. However, real retro isn’t always good, especially when it comes to flashes.

Many years ago, I bought a Pentax K10D in a camera shop as a backup for my main camera at the time, the Pentax K20D. At one point, I was doing macro photography and needed a flash. In my drawer, I found an old Metz Mecablitz 185, or something like that—I’m not sure of the exact model anymore. After testing it with some batteries, I realized it still worked, so I used it on the Pentax K10D, and it worked perfectly.

Sometime later, I went to put the camera back in its bag and noticed it felt warm, which was odd. Indeed, nothing turned on—it was completely dead. It cost me €400 to replace the fried electronics, but afterward, it was like new again. However, it was an expensive lesson.

Somewhere along the way, I found a chart listing flashes that operate with high voltage through the flash contact—higher than what a digital camera can handle. Having learned my lesson, I now prefer to take no risks. The Godox Lux Junior is a nice, affordable retro alternative that works perfectly on any digital camera with a center flash contact or standard hot shoe. Be careful, though—not all cameras have this. Some Sony cameras, for example, may pose a problem.

The Good Old Days:

Not only does it have a retro look, but it also operates entirely manually, just like in the good old days. There’s no communication with your camera, so you set the ISO using a dial, determine the distance to your subject, and check the dial to see which f-number matches your settings at full power. If you just want to add some fill light, you can adjust the power using the large knob, with seven steps ranging from full to 1/64 power.

There’s also an auto mode where the flash measures the light reflected from the subject. This works reasonably well, especially if you’re always shooting at the same distance.

For cameras without a hot shoe, a sync cable is included, which is also useful for off-camera flashes or connecting to an external trigger.

Additionally, there’s a switch for slave flash mode with two positions: S1 for a second flash without pre-flash and S2 for a second flash with pre-flash.

Versatility:

The Godox Lux Junior is a simple flash, so don’t expect miracles. However, on a camera like the Leica T, which has a flash that probably shouldn’t have been included, or on cameras without a built-in flash, the Godox Lux Junior can save the day. It adds a touch of light for small indoor events or situations where flash is needed at close range. It won’t last all day or night unless you carry plenty of AAA batteries, but for a family gathering, a dinner at a restaurant, or a poorly lit, unexpected event, the Godox is so small that you can always leave it in your bag. And if you keep a few spare AAA batteries with you, this little flash will certainly grab attention.

Standard AAA batteries as a power source have both advantages and disadvantages. Some may prefer rechargeable batteries, which is also an option, as there are rechargeable versions of AAA batteries. However, you will need a separate charger for them.

If you choose regular batteries, always opt for the better-quality alkaline type instead of the very cheap alternatives. After use, or at the very least the same day, always remove the batteries from the flash. Flashes, due to their high power consumption, can cause battery leakage over time, and that’s something you definitely don’t want in your flash’s battery compartment.

The Godox Lux Junior:

The Godox Lux Junior retails for around €65 in black and can be used on Olympus, Nikon, Canon, Fuji, and Leica cameras. Looking for even more retro vibes? It’s also available in white, mint green, green, pink, and red, although these colors come at a slightly higher price.

Specifications:

• GN12 (ISO 100)
• Flash power levels: 7 (1/1 – 1/64)
• Color temperature: 6000K ± 200K
• Compatible brands: Fujifilm, Canon, Nikon, Olympus, Leica, and more
• Dimensions: 73.8 x 50.2 x 71.8 mm
• Weight: 130 g
• Powered by two AAA batteries

What’s in the box:

• Godox Retro Lux Junior
• Trigger cable
• Storage pouch
• Paper manual with settings table

The Cabinet of Curiosities in Jars, my latest picture in La Gallerie :