how to keep the softboxes from sinking?

Patryk_Rebisz

Patryk_Rebisz

Veteran
Whenever i hang a rifa light as back light from a boom (meaning the pin comes from the side as opposed from the bottom) it always starts sinking as if the pin didn't have enough tension - anyone knows ways to remedy it?
 
The friction tilt was used to save weight and size in the design of the light (way before add-on softboxes existed). Adding a speed ring and some medium to large softboxes can apply enough leverage to overcome it. I don't know why the light bank manufacturers make speed rings for the Omni and DP lights that use the light's tilt mechanism instead of speed rings that have integrated tilting, such as those for the Tota-light (there are speed rings that take three to four Totas, Omnis or DPs). Up to Chimera Small, everybody else's Medium, often a little tightening on the tilt will be enough. For larger or heavier duty rigs, I have heard of but not tried myself, adding a pin or bolt to the speed ring that can be clamped into a grip head, taking the stress off the friction tilt mechanism and onto something more substantial. For safety and liability reasons I need to say, you make modifications at your own risk and may void warranties.
 
I found a solution. By replacing the round knob with something that allows for easier tightening now i can tighten the knob sufficiently around the pole to prevent the light from sinking.
rifa.jpg
 
Lowel Tech said:
The friction tilt was used to save weight and size in the design of the light (way before add-on softboxes existed). Adding a speed ring and some medium to large softboxes can apply enough leverage to overcome it. I don't know why the light bank manufacturers make speed rings for the Omni and DP lights that use the light's tilt mechanism instead of speed rings that have integrated tilting, such as those for the Tota-light (there are speed rings that take three to four Totas, Omnis or DPs). Up to Chimera Small, everybody else's Medium, often a little tightening on the tilt will be enough. For larger or heavier duty rigs, I have heard of but not tried myself, adding a pin or bolt to the speed ring that can be clamped into a grip head, taking the stress off the friction tilt mechanism and onto something more substantial. For safety and liability reasons I need to say, you make modifications at your own risk and may void warranties.
Click to expand...

excellent point. i have those rings for totas. i guess the omni and dp are such versatile lights that they go in the kit before totas do. and then i end up hanging soft boxes on them.
 
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