MagMod, best known for its magnetic flash modifiers, has launched its first light stands. The MagStand 9 Pro and MagStand 11 Pro are now in stock, and both are built around a wide, low footprint and a centre column that comes off to work as a handheld monopole.

That last feature is the one that caught our eye. Anyone who shoots weddings or events knows the routine of grabbing a stand, collapsing it and getting an assistant to hold a light overhead. With the MagStand you pull the pole out of the base and carry on, with MagMod quoting a 3.2kg (7lb) payload in monopole mode and 6.4kg (14lb) on the legs.

Built for location work

The legs deploy with a squeeze button rather than the usual collar-and-knob arrangement, and the extension sections lock automatically. There’s a utility hook underneath for hanging a sandbag or camera bag as counterweight, and the leg arms are concealed so there’s less to snag.

MagMod has also designed the stands to clip together for carrying, using optional magnetic leg connectors, so two stands can be carried in one hand. The stud is stainless steel with a flat edge to stop lights rotating, and it takes 5/8in stud, 1/4-20 and 3/8 fittings.

The main difference between the two models is height. The 9 Pro is the more compact option; the 11 Pro adds reach for overhead lighting and larger modifiers.

At around $200 these sit in premium territory for light stands, but if the quick-deploy legs and monopole mode work as well as they sound, they could earn their place in a wedding kit bag.

MagMod MagStand Pro specifications

MagMod MagStand Pro price and availability

The MagStand 9 Pro costs $199.95 and the MagStand 11 Pro costs $214.95. Double kits are also available. All are in stock now from MagMod; see the MagStand 9 Pro and MagStand 11 Pro product pages. UK pricing is still to be confirmed.