View Full Version : one flood/spot dimmable light?


Gary Barr
November 28th, 2005, 04:17 AM
don't know why the search function isn't working again for me, but hope someone can help..

looking for a single light setup for interior evening/night filming (not on-camera, I have the Paglight for that and it's great for vox pops etc., need something a lot more substantial - long range filming, maybe 50ft away from subject)

safety's important as public around so very hot bulb could be a problem, plus any recommendations for a very sturdy stand setup, maybe weights?

I have a dedo setup for interviews etc., but in some situations need just a big old source which I can throw up quickly!

thanks for any help.

Richard Alvarez
November 28th, 2005, 08:45 AM
Fifty feet is a pretty long throw for an interior... are you shooting in a gymnasium?

Seriously. Remember that light falls off at the inverse square of the distance. If you want to throw a 'soft' light fifty feet, you have to be up above 1k at the least. So look at lights that throw that, and possibly a soft box option. (Which, again, will cut down on your output) Fresnels will give you more controll then open faced, but cost more.

Heavy duty stands are the way to go. A c-stand with weights is good. But in a heavily populated setting, don't leave the light 'unattended' as sure as sunday, someone will knock it over.

Gary Barr
November 28th, 2005, 10:23 AM
thanks, yeah I think I need that throw so that I have the option of wide shots without the light in shot. I've also got a Manfrotto magic arm and clamp which should be good in place of a stand in some cases and probably safer too(?)

John Jay
November 28th, 2005, 11:13 AM
Hey Gary

youre gonna need something like a 575w or maybe 1200w HMI plus ballast to reach that kind of distance and be cool, plus a big manfrotto stand (4m?) to carry maybe 15kg, plus if your shooting indoors you will need some CTO.

thats quite a throw away from running 100w Dedo's

Gary Barr
November 28th, 2005, 01:07 PM
thanks guys. just seen as auction for a pair of 800W redheads w/heavy duty stands ending in an hour and I've bid..fingers crossed...what do you reckon of the choice?

John Jay
November 28th, 2005, 01:21 PM
http://www.arri.com/prod/lighting/06_photometric.php?swid=L1.76700.0