Godox iM30 iFlash Review
The Godox iM30 flash delivers an impressive combination of portability, power, and functionality, making it a great choice for photographers across genres. As a user of this compact flash, I’ve found it so easy to fit in your pocket or bag and it’s terrific for photographers who need a reliable lighting solution in various shooting conditions. It does, however have its limitations, due to its small size. Let’s take a look.
Godox iM30 iFlash mini compact on-camera flash
Note: Godox sent the iM30 for review and to keep, however this review is completely independent. All thoughts about this product are our own.
Pros
Compact Design: The iM30 is exceptionally small and lightweight, fitting seamlessly into any camera bag. It’s perfect for on-the-go photographers or those who need to travel light. Simple, minimalist design.
Very easy to use with intuitive, simple controls. Plug in the batteries and play, literally.
Impressive Power Output: Despite its size, the flash offers a strong output with a GN of 30, which provides ample light for most indoor and outdoor scenarios.
AAA Battery: The fact that it takes 2 x AAA batteries, means it’s pretty easy to replace when flat, and easily available while out and about.
User-Friendly Interface: The intuitive controls and power dial make adjustments quick and easy, even for beginners.
Manual settings, plus Slave Mode 1 and 2
Cons
Limited Coverage for Large Groups: While powerful, the iM30 isn’t ideal for shooting larger groups or venues that require extensive light spread.
Short Zoom Range: The flash’s zoom range could be more extensive, which may limit its effectiveness in certain telephoto applications.
Build Quality: While lightweight, the plastic build might feel less durable for photographers who frequently shoot in rugged environments.
Vignetting on large-diameter lenses. I found on a Nikon 24-70mm 82mm diameter lens the flash was casting a shadow or vignette
No TTL and HSS Compatibility: The iM30 does not support TTL or High-Speed Sync
The battery cover is a little awkward to get out
Performance in Natural Light
Using the iM30 in natural light, I tested its ability to serve as a fill flash for outdoor portraits. The results were stunning. The subtle yet effective fill light added depth and dimension to the subjects’ faces, eliminating harsh shadows without overpowering the natural ambience.
For still-life photography, the flash performed admirably, creating crisp and evenly lit images. The recycle time was quick, making it ideal for capturing multiple frames during golden hour sessions.
Godox iM30 iFlash – Sample Images
Outdoor Portraits: The iM30 added just enough light to brighten the subject while retaining the warmth of the golden hour glow.
Still Life and Product Shots: The flash produced clean, professional-quality results, with excellent shadow detail and highlights.
Godox iM30 iFlash — Technical specifications
All of the technical specifications for the iM30 are from the Godox website.
Model: iM30 iFlash
Battery type: 2 x AAA batteries (sold separately)
Guide Number (at Full Power): ~15 (ISO100, in Meters)
Full Power Flashes: 230 with chargeable battery
Recycle time: 3.6s
Flash Power Steps: 7 1/64 to 1/1 (full power)
CCT: 6500K+200K
Optical Trigger: Optical S1 Flash/ Optical S2 Flash/Off
Working Temp: -100C ~ +500C
Sync Trigger: Hot Shoe, Sync Cord
Dimensions: 2.4″ X 2.05″ X 1.77″
Net Weight (without batteries: 78g
Flash Mode, Manual, Slave
Compatible with most major mirrorless and film camera brands; Sony, Nikon etc
Godox iM30 iFlash — Versatility
Ergonomics are still pretty good. It’s minimalist and smooth, yet not slippery to the touch. It easily slides on and off the camera but can be tightened down and won’t slip off. It is super easy to use, I believe even for beginners. I handed it to a student who put it on their camera and was taking well-lit photos in mere minutes, on-camera flash is not something they normally use.
Out of the box
Out of the box, it comes with no batteries, but AAA are pretty easy to buy anywhere. My kit came with the flash unit, and instructions booklet.
iM30 on my Sony A7RV camera
Godox iM30 iFlash— In the field
Small and lightweight. Easy to pop in your pocket or bag. It is barely noticeable on the camera itself
Battery life
When fully charged, it will give you approximately 230 full-power flashes. I rarely run on full power so I get more out of it.
Standard hotshoe mount
Mounting
It comes with a standard hot shoe mounting bracket, it seems to work on multiple cameras.
Setup
Once on your camera, you can shoot, Manual, or use it as a Slave. I really only used Manual Mode and a Light Meter. Then you’re good to go. Generally, once you have set most things up on your camera, it is really just adjusting the power output.
Final Thoughts
The Godox iM30 is a stellar addition to the brand’s lineup, ideal for hobbyists and professionals who need a portable yet powerful flash. While it has some limitations, especially for large-scale applications, its performance, ease of use, and affordability make it a fantastic value.
Check out the unboxing video…
If you’re looking for a dependable flash for up-close portraits, macro, or still-life work in natural or controlled lighting, the Godox iM30 is worth considering.
Our verdict
Godox iM30 iFlash
★★★★★5/5
As far as small on-camera flashes go, I was actually pretty impressed with the iM30. Small yet powerful, but still gives a natural-looking light. True its use is limited to single portraits, or small subjects like macro or still life, but for the price, I think it’s a winner for beginners especially.
