China Ball/Paper Lantern question

armisiano

armisiano

Veteran
I know this is a horrible question, I'm expecting to get some flak from it, but here it goes. I'm thinking about buying a china ball/paper lantern for lighting purposes, I'm wondering what size would be practical to get? Yes, I know, it depends on what it's being used for. Here's the thing, I have no immediate projects lined up, I'd just like to add it to my bundle-o-equipment in general. So, generally, what size should I go for to be practical? 16"? 20"? 24"? I don't forsee myself using it as a general fill, more as a nice soft highlight occasionally.

Sorry for the crappiness of the question, try to answer as best you can. Thanks everybody.
 
Why should you get flak? China balls are well respected among pros.

I use 100 Watt Energy saving Flous in them to prevent fire.
 
I keep a supply of 12" and 24" ones. The 24" is nice 'n soft and the 12" is easily hidden in various nooks, behind set pieces, on top of bookcases and is just sweet for accents here and there.

~~Dave
 
filthrich said:
Are these the same as the Ikea balls? Because I have plenty of those.
Click to expand...

Not exactly, but close enough for most purposes. I use nylon china lanterns, like you can get at the site above. I have three of 'em folded up in a repurposed art portfolio, with hanging hardware. Beautiful light, and super portable.
 
filthrich said:
Are these the same as the Ikea balls? Because I have plenty of those.
Click to expand...


i got the IKEA ones, just 'cause I was there and they were 5 bucks a piece, but I have several spots that needed tape due to rips and tears. I would go with the nylon ones next time.

I use this bulb in it for some serious soft power w/out the risk of fire. Love that overgrown compact flo.
 
I have a ton of 32" and 24" silk balls with 500 and 250 watt photo flood bulbs. I use them all the time, they are great to have around. Just be careful with the 500watt bulbs, it's important that they stay centered, and I wouldn't use them in anything smaller than a 32" ball.

film tools has good prices on them
 
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