How much wattage?

zipper

New member
I shoot an entertainer. She spends about two-thirds of her time on a well- lit stage, and one-third of her time in the audience. The audience venues are almost always extreme low light. My new 200 doesn't have the low-light capabilities of my cam that was stolen. Does anyone have a suggestion for the wattage, and possibly the brand, of a "On Camera Light" (possibly spot) that will allow me to shoot at a distance of up to about 75 feet?

Thanks,
Lynn
 
I'd suggest hanging a couple of 9 light Mole Fays and having a dimmer close by that someone can bring up the fader on when your host walks out into the audience.
If you do find an on camera light that projects up to 75 feet then let us know as that will be a winner.
 
Thanks for the info, but "NO" off camera lighting is allowed. I can't seem to find a camera-mounted direct spotlight.

Lynn
 
You may like to consider a Dedolight - http://www.dedolight.com/100series.html . They aren't normally for on camera use, but are small enough for it to be realistic. As the head is 12volt, they can be powered via battery (up to 100watts, or 150watts for the 24volt version) or via mains if you use an inline transformer/dimmer. It's even possible to get a 200watt HMI version, though that would be on the large side mounted on a camera. The biggest plus about all of them is the flood/spot ability - they really do spot up very well.

I would worry more about the effect any suitable light would have on the show from the audience perspective though, and there is no easy answer to that. Not at least without going for a 2/3" camera, which will outperform any 1/3" model in low light, and allow much lower levels to be used.
 
Several 9 lite mole fays? Man thats 100amps of power at least and the wrong light for that kind of intimate situation. She is walking into an audience that is dark becuase it is a mood choice the venue/performer decided was appropriate.

There is no on camera light with that kind of throw but you could get someone to hold a spotlight right next to you or closer to the performer if thats possible. Either a par can, or mole par, or if you don't want to rent a professional light that needs to be plugged in get yourself one of those handheld cordless battery operated spot beam lights that auto stores sell and have someone hold it for you or mount it on a stand. they run $20-$60. You might want to get some color temperature blue gel for it as it might be too warm.
 
Thanks Mico, you have given me something to try. Guess there is too much mold on the brain cells for me to think of that.

Thanks again,.
 
No problem. if you decide t go with a non pro light do a test and see what color you get. You might want to get some gel to get it were you like. Also get some diffusion if you need to soften. If you go with the cordless spotlight make sure you place in a way that won't hit the singer in the eyes since you can't hang any lights from above. Tell the singer what you are going to do and show her the effect of the light. Very important.
 
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