Others say...

"OK"
The amount of light output by this device, requires you to be up close, and is not great at illuminating more than one subject.

"An absolute must add accessory !!!"
If you've already purchased your camcorder then you either already know or will find out very soon that it is a nice, versatile camcorder but has significant lighting limitations out of the box. In a perfectly lit room or a bright sunny day there is no need for this light/flash. But unless those are the only situations you plan to record under, YOU NEED THIS LIGHT !! You've just invested a good chunk of money in the camcorder, don't skimp now......you'll be glad you bought this when you see the difference it makes.

Running off of the camera battery is a nice feature and the auto-sensing light (for video) is handy. In just a few seconds you can go from video to picture taking (or vice-versa) and have the necessary light for both.

Oh, yeah....it's very compact, too.

"Works Well"
Works in well 5 to 20 ft away. There is no ajustablity for close recording. the light shots over the top of subject for video at 5 ft or less. the flash feature is perfect.

"Small but pricey"
I just received the HVL-HFL1 (video light and flash). It is small, light and compact but since I ordered, I realize the HVL-HL1 (video light only) is available and is about $100 less. Since the DVD-403 comes with a flash (albeit small), I am going to return and reorder the HVL-HL1 which is about $40. The video light was the main reason for ordering this for me. If you do want the flash capability, it does look well built and stylish (and did I say small). I guess the small size is a benefit of using the camcorder battery (rather than built in).

"Work, fits and looks great"
Fantastic, works perfect, easy to use, no extra cables or power cords required, easy to connect, lightweight