DIY Portable LED Ring Light With Quick Release (3D Printed) – Perfect for Macro and Low Light Photography

If you often shoot in low-light conditions or love macro photography, you know how crucial it is to have a light that is compact, reliable, and always ready to go. In this project, I will show you how to build a DIY ultra-portable LED ring light featuring adjustable intensity and, most importantly, a practical quick-release system that fits universally onto any camera lens.

Developed in collaboration with an experienced photographer to meet real-world field requirements, this tool prioritizes maximum convenience. The system is designed to never get in your way, allowing you to keep the control box securely clipped to your belt while the power bank sits comfortably in your pocket. This is not meant to light up an entire room, but is rather a localized ambient light perfect for enhancing close-up portraits, macro photography, and helping your camera achieve a lightning fast, optimal focus even in the dark.

To build this ring light, you’ll need a mix of 3D-printed parts and electronic components. The structure is fully customizable thanks to the printable files, while the electronics are simple and easy to source.

At the core of the system is a 12V COB LED ring, controlled by a PWM module to adjust brightness. Power is supplied by a power bank using a USB cable with a built-in step-up converter from 5V to 12V.

✅ 3D Printing Files:LINK

✅ Wiring Diagram: LINK

PROJECT MATERIALS:

PWM DC 1.8V-15V 2A Controller: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3b0ZCxB

DC 5.5x2.1mm Female Connector: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3QuQYYV

12V 5W COB LED Ring (120mm diameter): https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4O6ZR8D

Threaded Lens Adapter Ring Kit: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c44K5809

5V to 12V USB Step-Up Converter: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3JwaSWv

2-Pin 10x15mm ON/OFF Rocker Switch: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3D4JJ57

1m USB to DC 5.5x2.1mm Cable: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c30hsC4z

M2x3.2 Heat-Set Threaded Inserts: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c44ETFxB

M2x4 Countersunk Head Screws: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4kPSXRJ

Two-Component Epoxy Glue: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3jcJnKt

Power Bank (5V-2A Output): https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c2QY6sKN

Before starting assembly, it’s essential to properly prepare the 3D-printed parts. Heat-set threaded inserts must be installed into their designated slots. This step is crucial to ensure strength and durability, especially in stress areas like the ring mount and belt clip.

You can use a soldering iron or a small press for accurate installation.

https://www.instructables.com/DIY-Heat-Set-Threaded-Insert-Press-for-3D-Printed-/

Assembly starts by bonding the quick-release mount components using epoxy glue. Apply it carefully without excess.

Next, install the ring support and cable strain relief system. The LED ring is prepared by removing unnecessary components and soldering the power wires directly.

Once placed in the housing, it is secured with brackets that keep it perfectly aligned.

The electronic system is simple but requires attention. The PWM controller manages brightness and must be wired with correct polarity. Power goes into the input terminals, while the LED ring connects to the output.

An ON/OFF switch is added along the circuit for power control. All connections should be soldered and insulated with heat shrink tubing.

The control box houses all the electronic components. Once the wiring is complete, close the case with the screws and mount the regulator knob to easily control the brightness. It is important to decide on the orientation based on how it will be used (left or right side) to prevent cable tangling, and then glue the "LED" and plug symbol labels onto the output and input ports respectively.

Now you can connect the power bank and test the system. Turn it on and adjust the knob to verify smooth brightness control.

To mount it, screw the adapter onto your lens, attach the ring light, and connect the cables. The system is instantly ready to use.

This ring light is a practical, affordable, and customizable solution. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a portable lighting tool without compromising quality.

The project is still evolving: future improvements may include a more powerful version or an even stronger design.

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See you in the next project!