Matte box facts for HVX

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Pro Swooping Tour

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Sorry for the dumb question but I own a HVX 200 and I am wondering when is a big matte box best used? I mean, what are the main uses for a matte box and how does it improve the image outside of reducing lens flare? Thanks...
 
The most common use of a mattebox is to hold filters -- you can quick-change filters much easier than screwing them directly on the lens.

Also, it gives the actors a larger, more prominent focus to look at -- I've heard, for example, that Kiefer Sutherland won't work without matteboxes.

Plus, let's face it: they look pretty cool.
 
HVXUser666 said:
Do they all accept the same filters? I was going to ask this as well! long time reader , first time poster
Click to expand...
No, the filter size depends on a couple of things. One the size of the tray. You can have 3x3 4x4 4x5.65 5x5 and I think 6.5x6.5 (arri film?) but you may want to double check that. Filters themselves come in different thickness depending on the brand and material 2mm/3mm/4mm. IMO the most important aspect of the mattebox is to control stray light and prevent lens flares while shooting. Then looking extremely cool comes in a very close second.

Here are some good threads to get you up to speed as this is topic that comes up frequently

Is a mattebox essential?
http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/showthread.php?t=65597&highlight=mattebox

http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/showthread.php?t=66816&highlight=mattebox
http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/showthread.php?t=65597&highlight=mattebox
 
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Cool is easily number 1!

example:

before
1154148574.jpg


after
1156192102.jpg
 
TwistedLincoln said:
The most common use of a mattebox is to hold filters -- you can quick-change filters much easier than screwing them directly on the lens.

Also, it gives the actors a larger, more prominent focus to look at -- I've heard, for example, that Kiefer Sutherland won't work without matteboxes.

Plus, let's face it: they look pretty cool.
Click to expand...

Well Mr. Sutherland has one named for him that you guys might check out in this link below.

http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/showthread.php?t=50411

PS my elbow is fine now Mr. Twisted.

David
 
Also the difference between getting busted by the cops and not, and attracting a crowed to your shoot or not.

The public recognizes matteboxes as a "real" movie camera, even if you know better.
 
I heard the theory to equate a Matte Box to holding your hand over your eyes on a sunny day. You can see further and with more clarity. The same for the camera.
 
lol. His first thanks should have been to whoever made his matte box.
"i couldnt have done it without cavision! i mean, i owe it all to them..i just cant act without a mattebox you know!?"
 
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