For ACs using a laser range finder

M

mikezip007

Active member
For those of you with a Hilti 4, 40 or 42 how often to you find using it over standard tape? I can see for long distances it would be used a lot but what about the 10-30 ft range? What about within 10 ft? I've been thinking about purchasing one lately but wanted to get your opinions on using it and how using a Hilti is received on set by others (does it make you look lazy? efficient? something else?
 
The AC's I hire (usually Local 600) who work on features/episodic TV always seem to favor tape.

My personal choice: If you came on to my set with a laser range finder, you would be replaced before you put your bag down. I pay my AC's a lot of money for their experience+training. I expect them to adapt very quickly after they have their initial readings and not slow down production and never ever pull a range finder on a talent.

For indie productions due to lack of experience or training there might be options to cut corners. I cant say there is an absolute right or wrong way of doing it but on large sets you are absolutely judged by your every action (style points). It can mean between getting the next job or not.

just my 2c.
 
You obviously don't like the rangefinders, but don't give much reason as to why, I'm just curious why you don't see it as a viable option...
 
Laser range finders emit electromagnetic interference that may cause remote FF or transmitters to fail. Also using a laser range finder on a person is not recommended by any manufacturer.

PS: Cine Tape has been the industry standard for many years but not an affordable one. Redrock seems to be coming out with a alternative but I'll believe it when I see it.
 
I use a tape, but wonder why a sonar (Panatape) is acceptable to you but not a laser range finder? A good deal can be done during blocking. I would think the range finder can be used safely in most instances. Certainly, you wouldn't do close-ups on the range-finder, just like you wouldn't loud sticks slating a CU.

There are lots of things done today that weren't done even a few years ago. Arri's new camera has FCP compatible SxS cards - drag and drop into an NLE from Arriflex.

So...who is to say what is "the professional way"?
 
Hi Erik,

-Panatape is acceptable because its sonic, not laser.

-Yes you can probably use laser for blocking but on a feature film set or episodic TV you probably will never get a chance to do that safely.

-I understand your point of "changing market and rules" but what I do for my company's projects and the work I do for features are completely different in nature as well. They require different set of tools and rules. I am not saying LRF are bad because they are the "new", just not right for my productions.

(PS:I will be purchasing a Alexa as soon as it becomes available but I have no intention of getting rid of my 2700's or 3000's...adapt or die :))

-I never speak in absolutes to say there is only one "professional way" It's just my choice.

PSS: I am very picky with 1st Ac's. They have an enormous responsibility on set. I wont post exactly how I pick them on a public forum but the permalancers I hire have my complete trust.
 
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