The new HS Freeze Series is here – and with models 2x, 4x, and 6x, it brings not only a breath of fresh air but also exciting innovations to our flash range. Even before the official launch, our partner Stephan Wiesner, a professional photographer and specialist in flash photography, had the opportunity to thoroughly test the new flashes.
In this article, we share his personal impressions and technical assessments with you – providing a practical insight into what defines the new generation of our compact flashes.
Whether it's handling, performance, or ease of use: Stephan took a close look – and we have summarized his experiences for you.
Housing and Operation – Modern Technology, Simple Handling
Anyone who has worked with a flash from the previous generation will immediately notice the optical and technical advancements. We have replaced the classic button operation with a modern touch interface. Operation is intuitive and reliable, similar to a smartphone.
The battery is still removable and features a charge status indicator. In practice, a single battery has always been sufficient for the professional photographer – as long as it is charged in time. The also new radio transmitter appears modern and clear with its touch display. For those who prefer to stick with the classic version: the older radio transmitters remain fully compatible and function reliably.
Light in the Studio – Simple Setups with Great Impact
A major advantage of the new HS Freeze flashes is their versatility – both in the studio and on the go. Even with a simple setup, for example a 90cm softbox and a dark background, high-quality portraits can be achieved. In a test by Wiesner, the HS Freeze 6X was used – and only at power level 3 out of 9. For comparable setups, the 2X or 4X would also be entirely sufficient.
A silver, curved reflector was also used, providing a subtle fill light on the face and an appealing catchlight in the eyes – a small detail that adds additional depth to the image.
Outdoor Photography – Targeted Lighting Even in Difficult Conditions
Especially with outdoor shots – such as at weddings – one is highly dependent on the weather and lighting situation. Shadows, leaves, or unfavorable backlighting can strongly influence image quality. With a powerful flash, you regain control over the light.
A proven approach: intentionally place your model in the shade and use the flash as the main light source. The result is high-contrast, detailed images with a professional look. By using short shutter speeds, movements can be captured sharply – even at wide apertures.
Creatively Combining Flash and Daylight – Perfect Staging in Sports Photography
The flashes also excel in the field of fitness or sports photography. In studios, ambient light is often diffused and flat – here, targeted flash lights bring out structures, contours, and muscle definition.
A typical light setup: an HS Freeze 6X as the main light with a softbox, complemented by a 4X as a rim light. Both flashes can be equipped with grids to minimize spill light and make the lighting even more precise. The power levels used in the test ranged between 4 and 6 – sufficient to effectively use even larger light shapers.
While continuous light could also be used, it quickly reaches its limits in bright daylight or with larger softboxes. Flashes not only provide significantly more power here but also automatically freeze movements – a decisive advantage for dynamic shots.
Modeling Light and Color Temperature – Also Usable as Continuous Light
A special feature of the new HS Freeze X-Series is the integrated modeling light. The 6X model, in particular, boasts a powerful 40-watt light, which can even be used as a standalone light source in many situations – for instance, when shooting videos or in controlled lighting environments.
The color temperature is flexibly adjustable – from warm to cool – and thus adapts optimally to the respective shooting situation. This allows for creative lighting moods as well as neutral, objective looks.
Which Flash Suits Your Requirements?
The central question is: Which model is best suited for your work?
The HS Freeze 2X is the most compact and lightest model in the series – ideal for those who do a lot of mobile photography and value low weight. However, it does not have a classic Bowens mount, but rather a four-point one. Adapters are available, but we only conditionally recommend using large softboxes with this model.
The HS Freeze 4X already offers significantly more power and flexibility – a true all-rounder for portraits, studio shots, and outdoor shoots in the shade.
If you regularly work in daylight or with very short shutter speeds, the HS Freeze 6X is an excellent choice. Especially in high-speed mode, flashes require more power to ensure even illumination. This is where the top model demonstrates its strengths.
For professional cameras with a central shutter – such as those from Hasselblad or Fuji – or modern Sony models, the HS Freeze 6X also offers future-proofing: working with extremely short shutter speeds is also possible without problems.
Conclusion – Modern Technology, High Performance, Maximum Control
The new HS Freeze X-Series impresses Stephan Wiesner with its modern operation, strong performance, and flexible application possibilities. Whether in the studio, at weddings, or during sports photography – with the right model, you get a powerful tool for your creative lighting. Thanks to well-thought-out technology, long-lasting batteries, and diverse compatibility, the new flashes are a worthwhile investment for demanding users.
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