Westcott Optical Spot vs Nanlite Fresnel: Modifier Comparison
By Borge's Imaging — Shop Photography, Printing and Studio Gear in Melbourne Borge's Imaging | Published: 2026-10-29
Category: Comparisons
Compare the Westcott Optical Spot and Nanlite Fresnel Adaptor to decide which light modifier fits your studio needs. We break down key differences and trade-offs.
Quick answer
Choose the Westcott Optical Spot if you need precise gobo projection and adjustable beam shaping; choose the Nanlite Fresnel Adaptor if you want a compact, affordable barn-door solution for your Forza 60 or 150.
What each modifier does best
The Westcott Optical Spot is a specialty modifier that projects sharp-edged circles of light and patterns using included gobos and gels. Its focusable lens and adjustable metal leaves let you control shape and spread with high precision.
The Nanlite Fresnel Adaptor is a simple, lightweight attachment that converts your Forza 60 or 150 into a focused spot with a barn door set. It is designed for speed and portability, not for pattern projection.
Power and compatibility trade-offs
The Westcott Optical Spot is rated for non-bulb strobes up to 600Ws and 100W COBs, and comes in Bowens or Profoto mount versions. This makes it versatile for studio flash and continuous lights, but it requires a compatible light source and enough power to maintain brightness through the optical system.
The Nanlite Fresnel Adaptor is purpose-built for the Forza 60, 60B, and 150 series. It does not work with other lights, but it is much smaller and costs a fraction of the Westcott. If you own a Forza 60, it is a no-brainer; if you need a modifier for multiple light systems, the Westcott is more flexible.
Trade-offs to consider
- Gobo projection vs. no gobo: The Westcott Optical Spot projects patterns with included gobos and gels; the Nanlite Fresnel does not. If you need to create textured backgrounds or logo projections, the Westcott is essential.
- Beam control: metal leaves vs. barn doors: The Westcott uses adjustable metal leaves for precise, sharp slices of light. The Nanlite Fresnel uses traditional barn doors for broader light shaping. Metal leaves give finer control; barn doors are faster to set up.
- Mount flexibility vs. dedicated design: The Westcott Optical Spot is available in Bowens and Profoto mounts, fitting many studio lights. The Nanlite Fresnel only fits Forza 60/150. If you own multiple light brands, the Westcott is more versatile. Check your light's mount before buying.
Product facts at a glance
- Westcott Optical Spot With Bowens Mount: Bowens Mount version includes 8 gobo designs, 5 gel filters, adjustable metal leaves, and a focusable lens. You can project patterns or colored shapes onto backgrounds or subjects without buying extra accessories.
Westcott Optical Spot With Bowens Mount - Westcott Optical Spot With Profoto Mount: Profoto Mount version offers the same features as the Bowens version but attaches to Profoto light sources. Profoto users get the same gobo and beam-shaping capabilities without needing an adapter.
Westcott Optical Spot With Profoto Mount - Nanlite Fresnel Adaptor for Forza 60, 60B and Forza 150: Includes a Fresnel attachment and barn door set, designed specifically for the Forza 60, 60B, and Forza 150. It is a quick, affordable way to add a focused beam and light control to your Forza LED, but lacks gobo or gel capabilities.
Which modifier is right for you?
Best for
- Studio photographers who need gobo projection for backgrounds or effects
- Users of Bowens- or Profoto-mount strobes or COB lights who want precise beam shaping
Not for
- Photographers who only need a simple, focused beam with barn doors
- Forza 60/150 owners who want a compact and budget-friendly modifier
