How would I make this type of grid?

J

JaredSMark

Active member
1) I've got some PARs which have MR16 bulbs in them. I got the narrowest spots that I could find, but they're still not narrow enough. I need an extremely controlled, nearly-perfect beam of light. What are my options for going pro with that besides Dedolights?

2) For now I think making a grid/snoot combo will suffice. Which kind of heat-resistant material can I buy that I could make a snoot out of?

3) I'd also like to add a grid inside of the snoot for the icing on the cake. I looked into it and it was recommended to use black drinking straws, but the plastic will melt due to the heat of the MR16s (line voltage). What can I use as a replacement for this to make a grid?


The snoot+grid combo will be circular, not rectangular like you see since these PARs are cylindrical. This will probably get me closer to what I need for an extremely narrow spot without spending a few grand.
 
JaredSMark said:
1) I've got some PARs which have MR16 bulbs in them. I got the narrowest spots that I could find, but they're still not narrow enough. I need an extremely controlled, nearly-perfect beam of light. What are my options for going pro with that besides Dedolights?.
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An ellipsoidal is the preferred tool for this task.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ellipsoidal_reflector_spotlight

A 750 watt Source 4, with lens, & drop-in iris, is my first choice, & can be used for a myriad of applications. If desired it can also be used with an HMI such as the Joker 400.

While these aren't that expensive, if your on a budget I'm sure you can find used units.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PkC1Mj8tHSw&feature=youtube_gdata_player
 
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Even a fresnel will give you a more concise beam than a par; a snoot or top hat will help, but for a real defined beam something with a lens is optimal. An ellipsoidal is designed to do just waht you want. Pyramid films often has great prices on ellipsoidals, and check eBay for old theater fresnels, etc.

For small grids, look into still photography strobe accessories - I have circular grids in 16", 7", and even 2" for snoots. These types of grids aren't used that much in motion work, as you can often see a "speckled" look once something moves - they're more useful in still shoots, for jewelry, food, hair, etc. I have a set of Matthews grids for 6" fresnels, but they're rarely the right thing.
 
It sounds like you don't want that much power as well, since you're only using MR16's. Maybe try an inky with a focal spot and iris.
 
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