Must Purchase Lighting for Middle School Film Class

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Burrellarts

New member
Hey all, I teach a free film production class for under-privileged Middle School students. We shoot, of course, on mini-dv and, thus far, have used only practicals or daylight with some bounce-boards to light our productions. Our non-profit recently received a donation of $1,000 for lighting equipment and I want to get the best lighting equipment for these kids to learn on/shoot with. I feel like the kids need to have something semi-professional in nature that can be easily worked with (rather than China balls and work-lights). Anybody able to suggest some kinds of lighting or a good beginners kit I could get for them?


Thanks so much for the help. The kids thank you too!
 
Since your a non - profit, you might benefit by contacting Lowel and Mole lighting and Arri, and write them a grant proposal type letter asking for a donation of a 3 light kit. These companies are big enough to recognise your note and perhaps donate one to your school.
Offer them footage shot by students as an incentive, write up a fake news release stating "Lowel Lighting INC DONATES MUCH NEEDED VIDEO GEAR TO SCHOOL PROGRAM" YADDA, YADDA. TELL THEM YOU'LL PUBLISH THIS NOTE WITH PROPER QUOTES FROM COMPANY EXECUTIVES.
It's just a thought....Otherwise I would contact B&H (Huge camera and lighting retailer in NY) and other large retailers..Filmtools and several others and send them a note asking for donations of lighting kits for your program.
I like Lowel products for the learning curve of young filmmakers, but if too young, the light stands are flimsy, and can topple over with the slightest touch. (Especially in kit form)
Perhaps a fund drive or several bake sales...Otherwise, if your need is immediate, a Lowel DP kit or a RIFA light kit of some kind.. I haven't looked at new Lowel products for awhile, so excuse me for being behind the times.
I'd love to suggest an ARRI softbank kit, but it's too pricey, too much, and well over a thousand bucks. GOOD LUCK
 
another great thing to do, especially if you area non-profit, is to just call up the company's marketing/PR firm and tell them your story, ask them who at the company to talk to about a charitable donation.
 
Yup, perfect....Start making those calls and writing those letters..
You might be able to get a couple of free rentals from a local production company or rental house...Just a suggestion.
 
Thanks for the suggestions...

Thanks for the suggestions...

Thanks for the suggestions, Filmat11, NewYorkLion and Ian.

I think approaching the companies you'd suggested is worth a shot and the strategy you suggest, Filmat11 is helpful too. I'm new to the non-profit world and procuring donations isn't something I've got much experience with.
 
You could also ask one of those company to match your budget, so that $1000 get you a $2000 light kit. Also if you are using it with kids, I would go with a company like Arri or Mole which offer products that are very strong and well built. Not sure I would go with Lowel, not the best quality lights...
 
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