question on chimeras…and a bit on arris and moles

[P. j. Severtson]

All this talk of Chimeras is great. They are also expensive. A Chimera and speed ring for a 2K can set you back $500. Nothing controls a light, however, like a flag on a C stand; the stock in trade of grips.

Just for grins and giggles, check out the Barger-Baglight at: https://www.barger-baglite.com/buzz.htm They’re intensity is controllable by just switching one or more lights on or off.

Try double diffusion with: 1) diffusion clipped to the outside of the barn doors and 2) a knife blade frame in front of that, on a C stand (which) gives a great control without spending $500 on Chimera, speed ring, etc. Now you can flag the light off of the back ground or other tallant as needed.

Short on C stands? The C stand can be eliminated by using a Mathews Mafter clamp on your light stand and a grip arm to hold the knife blade frame. Don’t forget the sand bag.

Chimeras are great for creating a large soft semi-controllable light source but they are really costly, especially for a 2K or larger.

A 4ft by 4ft Mathews knife blade frame, on the other hand, costs about $100 and lasts forever. You now have a choice of diffusion types, depending on your diffusion needs. Chimeras, however, are not so cheap and long lasting. Flags are usually necessary in any event.

It all depends on if you are doing an interview or lighting a large studio set for a four person cast.

Just a thought.

Best wishes,

PJ