Govee RGB LED Strip Lights

Almost every 'that setup looks expensive' photo is doing one thing you're not: bias lighting behind the monitor.

Who it's for

Anyone whose setup looks flat on camera, and anyone getting eye strain from a bright screen in a dark room. This is the highest visual-impact-per-dollar item on the whole list.

Who should skip it

People who want accurate colour for photo or video work — coloured bias light will fight you. Use neutral white instead.

What actually matters

• Bias lighting reduces eye strain by lifting the contrast between screen and wall.
• Depth on camera — it separates your desk from the wall behind it.
• Dim it. At 20% it looks designed; at 100% it looks like a gaming café.
• Stick it behind, not in front. The light should wash the wall, never hit the lens.

The verdict

Under $30 and it changes every photo you take of your setup. Just resist the urge to turn it all the way up.

Lighting is the last step. The biggest surface on the desk is the first. Browse our desk mats →

Affiliate disclosure: if you buy through our links we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. We only list gear we would put on our own desk, and we never accept payment for placement.

Photography note: images on this page are our own illustrative studio shots, not the manufacturer's official product photos. Check the Amazon listing for official images, exact model variations and current pricing.