V1 Really Dark with M2? at DVinfo.net

Michael Jordan · October 7th, 2008, 12:50 AM

Hi there! I'm new to the Redrock Micro M2. I'm using it plus the MicroX adapter on the V1.

I am really really surprised by how much light I lose through this rig and I was wondering if it's normal?

I tried lighting a test interview subject using a 650W light for the key and that was totally insufficient. I was only able to get about 40-50 IRE in the highlights of skin, and this lighting setup would have been almost too hot for the V1 in "normal" situations. I took it outside and with both lenses open (the V1 at f/2.2 and the Nikkor 50mm at f/1.4) exposure was just about right, where I would normally expect to put ND filters on and such.

It's not my intent to complain, I'm just wondering if this is normal? I've seen plenty of M2 footage elsewhere and some of it is indoors using what looks like natural light, so this is a different experience than I had expected.

Is it just me?

Brian Valente · October 7th, 2008, 09:22 AM

Hi Michael

I would say 650w is not enough (as you aptly pointed out) - you may want to run a 1k for the key. If you haven't already done so, check out our cinescreen II upgrade, which delivers improved light transmission, sharpness, and contrast. you can find more information here:

Redrock Micro: create the cinema experience :: View topic - cinescreen II upgrade announced Sept 25th

Michael Jordan · October 7th, 2008, 11:04 AM

Thanks Brian! I actually do have the Cinescreen II, but again, thanks I was just making sure that's normal.

Brian Valente · October 7th, 2008, 11:09 AM

Hi Michael

great - yes, overall you have to factor in the adapter, the 35mm lens, and your camera's own aperture. A 650w key is good for stock video, but you'll need a bit more for 35mm adapters

Brian

October 7th, 2008, 12:50 AM	#1
Michael Jordan New Boot Join Date: Dec 2005 Posts: 16	V1 Really Dark with M2? Hi there! I'm new to the Redrock Micro M2. I'm using it plus the MicroX adapter on the V1. I am really really surprised by how much light I lose through this rig and I was wondering if it's normal? I tried lighting a test interview subject using a 650W light for the key and that was totally insufficient. I was only able to get about 40-50 IRE in the highlights of skin, and this lighting setup would have been almost too hot for the V1 in "normal" situations. I took it outside and with both lenses open (the V1 at f/2.2 and the Nikkor 50mm at f/1.4) exposure was just about right, where I would normally expect to put ND filters on and such. It's not my intent to complain, I'm just wondering if this is normal? I've seen plenty of M2 footage elsewhere and some of it is indoors using what looks like natural light, so this is a different experience than I had expected. Is it just me?

October 7th, 2008, 09:22 AM	#2
Brian Valente Major Player Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: Hollywood, CA Posts: 293	Hi Michael I would say 650w is not enough (as you aptly pointed out) - you may want to run a 1k for the key. If you haven't already done so, check out our cinescreen II upgrade, which delivers improved light transmission, sharpness, and contrast. you can find more information here: Redrock Micro: create the cinema experience :: View topic - cinescreen II upgrade announced Sept 25th __________________ ========================== Brian Valente Redrock Microsystems

October 7th, 2008, 11:09 AM	#4
Brian Valente Major Player Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: Hollywood, CA Posts: 293	Hi Michael great - yes, overall you have to factor in the adapter, the 35mm lens, and your camera's own aperture. A 650w key is good for stock video, but you'll need a bit more for 35mm adapters Brian __________________ ========================== Brian Valente Redrock Microsystems

October 7th, 2008, 11:04 AM	#3
Michael Jordan New Boot Join Date: Dec 2005 Posts: 16	Thanks Brian! I actually do have the Cinescreen II, but again, thanks I was just making sure that's normal.