A MATTEBOX: how useful?

[new_dvx_user]

How useful or necessary is the use of a mattebox? Is it mainly the use of filters? Does it really gives you better footage controlling the light coming to the lens? Or is the lens hood of the DVX100 (and HMC150) sufficient enough, and do you only need a mattebox in extreme light circumstances?

 

[andythefilmer]

I do not own one, but I have seen them used without filters before. They do block out more light than you'd expect. If I owned one, I would use it any time I was pointed towards a light source or outside. It may not be too noticeable, but the next time you are just outside, look at something in the general direction of the sun and then look at it again but make a cup with your hands around your eye. Chances are it might look better like that. The matte box may not directly block the actual lens flare, but it can make a more clean looking image. Especially combined with a polarizer it will look very professional. They are expensive though. The one downside... It may be a good investment depending on how much you shoot in daylight or around lots of light.

 

[ryvac]

there you go, that's the answear!
you use it to cut the light and use filters.
that's it.

if you wanted to know how useful the filters are....now that's a whole different story

 

[ProfessorU]

Sometimes I find a mattebox is too much to pack without an AC and I still want 4x4 filters, so I use a Cokin Z-Pro filter holder. I have it set to hold 1 4x4 4 mm glass plus up to two cokin 2mm filters. Then if I have flare issues I just find a flag.

A mattebox is also a great way to intimidate novices, for better or worse.