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Wednesday, June 13, 2012

Lighting Alchemy: Building A 4x4 Quick Frame

[HIGHLY RECOMMEND WATCHING THIS FULL SCREEN]

4x4 frames can be a great tool to help you shape light, however they can be cumbersome to transport when space is at a premium. Add to that the additional cost of buying a 4x4 break away frame, and you might opt to forgo the 4x4 frame all together. In this post I show you how to build your own frame that will get you 90% of the way there for about 1/3 of the price. Read on for links to everything you need to make this project happen. 

See The Frame In Use On Set:
Lighting Alchemy: Behind The Scenes of Working From Home




The Real Thing:
Matthews Main Site
Nothing beats the real thing. If you have the cash, just spend the money and buy the frame - it's a solid investment.

The Parts List: ($50 - $58*)
(4x) Quick Frame Tube [48.25" long - Part Number: 9000 N] $5 - $6 each on Ebay*. ($20 - $24 total)
(4x) Quick Frame 2 Way Connector [Black Elbow - Part Number: 9220 N] $2 - $3 each on Ebay*. ($8 - $12)
- See below for a parts list for an 8x8 Frame


*As with anything on Ebay, prices are subject to change, and the parts may not always be available. If you can't find the parts on ebay, you can also buy direct from 80/20 through the main site.)

Accessories / Rags:

The Tool List:

8x8 Frame Parts List**: ($100 - $116*)
(8x) Quick Frame Tube [48.25" long - Part Number: 9000 N] $5 - $6 each on Ebay*. ($40 - $48 total)
(4x) Quick Frame 2 Way Connector [Black Elbow - Part Number: 9220 N] $2 - $3 each on Ebay*. ($8 - $12)
(4x) Quick Frame Butt Connector [Black Elbow - Part Number: 9215 N] $2 - $3 each on Ebay*. ($8 - $12)


*As with anything on Ebay, prices are subject to change, and the parts may not always be available. If you can't find the parts on ebay, you can also buy direct from 80/20 through the main site.)

** I DO NOT recommend building anything larger then an 8x8 frame using this method. If you need a larger frame, rent or buy the real thing. If you build anything larger then an 8x8 frame, there is a good possibility that it will not be structurally safe.

Until Next Time, Get Out There And Shoot!
Ryan E. Walters, Cinematographer

3 comments:

  1. For a good video shoot the lighting plays a vital role. Thanks for sharing the complete details.

    Video Lighting Equipment

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  2. Thanks for taking the time to watch- glad it was helpful. :)

    ReplyDelete