Working with Natural and Artificial Light
Working on a closed stage or set can make lighting a stage/subject very straightforward. There are, of course challenges, but there's a lot of control. What about lighting in a location where there is natural light? Let's talk about getting along with the sunshine.
The sun is wonderful! It provides lovely, 110+ degree days, burns your skin, and smolders your retinas. The sun also melts evil snow and makes rainbows possible. Sun is our friend, not our enemy. Here are our favorite lights/gear to use when tangoing with the natural daylight.
Arri Skypanel. It's big, powerful, doesn't draw a whole lot of electricity, and spreads nicely like jam.
Litepanels Gemini 1x1. Think, Skypanel in a 1x1' LED panel. Also, the light spread is jelly like, "soft and spreadable".
Litepanels Astra 6X. They don't come with the 96-color crayon box of filters, colors and effects, but they'll give you a gentle smack in the face on a bright day.
Joker 800 Bug. A big ol' haymaker of light, right in your face. (Great to shoot off a bounce board, or use as an accent.)
Lastly, cutters, floppies, flags, frames and diffusions. Remember, the sun is pretty bright... you may just need to block and bounce a little. Sunshine is a gift from the Heavens, use it before you lose it.
If you have a sun-filled video production in your future, let us help you make it a little faker, but much more attractive.
Gemini 1x1 LED Panels
We've recently upgraded to the Litepanels Gemini 1x1 LED panels. These panels seem to be a bit sturdier and more durable than the Astra 6X. The Gemini feature accurate full spectrum Daylight and Tungsten light, with 0-100% dimming. Additionally, the Gemini feature full color with hue and saturation control. All Gemini panels include a soft box, perfect for interviews and extended lighting control. These lights are great in a myriad of situations, and, to be honest, you'll feel really cool just being near one. For your next Las Vegas video production, make sure to add a couple of these amazing lights to your G&E package.