The Flashpoint XPLOR100 Pro II TTL: A Game-Changer in Portable Lighting

For an extended period, I held reservations about the efficacy of less powerful flash units. Observing their deployment by fellow photographers at various functions often elicited a sense of apprehension, envisioning the extensive post-production work required to rectify lighting deficiencies. However, my perspective shifted dramatically upon the introduction of the Flashpoint XPLOR 100 Pro II TTL for a series of workshops hosted by The Phoblographer. Its performance has genuinely captivated me, to the extent that it has largely supplanted my high-end Profoto B10, a testament to its unexpected capabilities.

My experience with the Flashpoint XPLOR 100 Pro II TTL spans both product and event photography. Several aspects of its design and functionality deserve particular attention. Firstly, the unit features ingeniously designed magnetic attachments for light shaping. Initially, I harbored concerns that these would detach during active shoots, yet I was pleasantly surprised to find them remarkably secure. The Flashpoint XPLOR 100 Pro II TTL, essentially Adorama's iteration of Godox's lighting technology, shares a significant portion of its interface and accessory ecosystem. Remarkably, even when subjects inadvertently brushed against the soft diffusion dome, it merely required a gentle readjustment, never fully dislodging.

Operating the flash is straightforward: a simple press of the power button on the rear, followed by turning a control wheel. Adjusting settings is intuitive, with many functions controllable directly from the radio trigger. A notable convenience is the USB-C charging capability for both the transmitter and the Flashpoint XPLOR 100 Pro II TTL's battery.

This lighting tool offers flexible mounting options, compatible with standard light stands or held comfortably by hand using its integrated handle—my preferred method. I recall using it at Rib King 2026, paired with a Canon EOS R3 and a fisheye lens. This combination delivered excellent results in most scenarios. The only instance where the Flashpoint XPLOR 100 Pro II TTL showed minor limitations was during rapid continuous shooting for fast-moving subjects, where its power output struggled to keep pace. Nevertheless, its high-speed sync performance was consistently impressive.

From a practical standpoint, the color consistency of such an affordably priced light might not be a primary concern for many contemporary photographers. However, it performed admirably in this regard. I typically maintain a fixed white balance and color profile, and the unit's output remained exceptionally consistent, minimizing any need for adjustments.

It's important to note that to achieve proper synchronization with Canon's shutter, the flash must be manually set to High-Speed Sync (HSS). Similar considerations applied to Nikon systems, though this specific adjustment was not consistently required with Panasonic LUMIX cameras.

While the Flashpoint XPLOR 100 Pro II TTL may not boast the sheer power of my former Profoto B10, it undeniably offers a comparable level of performance. It is significantly lighter, although its operational complexity is slightly higher. A particularly surprising attribute was its resilience: the unit continued functioning perfectly even amidst light rainfall, defying my expectations of a quick malfunction. It demonstrated remarkable reliability, with no misfires detected even in the presence of other radio transmitters.

For those embarking on their photographic journey, the Flashpoint XPLOR 100 Pro II TTL is an exceptional recommendation. However, it's crucial to understand its limitations, particularly regarding continuous shooting, where it is best suited for single frames per second. Aspiring photographers should also recognize that this unit serves as an excellent starting point, with potential for future upgrades to more powerful lighting solutions as their needs evolve. Its affordability further enhances its appeal.