Best lights to get for under $200?

M

Michael Bay

Member
I know it's cheap but I'm really low on funds right now. What are the best cheap lights that will work. No special lights really needed but a lot of the film will be shot on bluescreen.
 
It depends on what you're doing more than anything. Work lights can be adapted, but I don't like them for the color. Clip lights make for a good socket base, you can diffuse them with chinese lanterns. You should have a lot of reflectors and diffusers, allowing you to use practicals and make the most of the lights you do buy. Go to the hardware store and see what looks good.
 
mainstreetprod said:
I just made a china ball using a paper lantern from Pier One and these parts from Home Depot to make 6 usable sockets:

http://www.shopwiki.com/_008-1406I+SOCKET+ADAPTER+-+1+EA
http://www.shopwiki.com/_Leviton+00...ki-us-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325
http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=5984213

I set it up for 6 bulbs just by screwing and plugging everything together. Total cost about $60. Equiv. to 600w tungsten, but daylight balanced
Click to expand...

any finished photos of this? did you just use multiples to get to six sockets?

I see your also in Nashville, surprised we haven't bumped into each other
 
are you trying to properly light a blue screen for keying with $200? thats going to be a bit of a challenge if so. your cheapest method is going to be doing a loooot of DIY with fluorescent lights and work lights with diff.
 
For under $200, I'd recommend a couple of worklights, then save your money. There isn't much of a middle ground that's worthwhile investing in before you can afford some used fresnels.
 
I'd recommend you build a china ball system. I created a separate thread here with needed items and links to them. You should be able to do it for a tad over $140 each.
 
mainstreetprod said:
I just made a china ball using a paper lantern from Pier One and these parts from Home Depot to make 6 usable sockets:

http://www.shopwiki.com/_008-1406I+SOCKET+ADAPTER+-+1+EA
http://www.shopwiki.com/_Leviton+00...ki-us-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325
http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=5984213

I set it up for 6 bulbs just by screwing and plugging everything together. Total cost about $60. Equiv. to 600w tungsten, but daylight balanced
Click to expand...

also, what are those bulbs color temp? DId you order off the web or just pick them up in store?
 
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