Re: matte box for dvx100 and xl2?
A matte box performs three functions--
1) It shades the lens from stray light. This isn't a trivial function, and the lens hood that comes with the DVX only does a fair to middling job, particularly when you're shooting exteriors. Alternatively you can flag off any light hitting the lens.
2) It also acts as a multiple filter holder and allows for the rotation of grads and polarizers. Without a matte box, you can buy 72mm screw in filters, but you'll still need some system to hold and position a grad.
3) Some people think it looks cool.
I'm only being partially facetious here. Maybe you need to impress a client or help convince actors you're legit. Some filmmakers just want to look cool. That's ok by me because, unlike a coffee-can sized exhaust pipe on a Honda Civic, a matte box has an actual function--even if you only buy it to look cool.
[quote author=TimeKoder13 link=board=Links;num=1107437657;start=15#18 date=02/23/05 at 20:44:53]Actually, Barry_S what's the matte box for? I initially thought it was a framing assistant, then I thought it was to keep out glare from the sun & lights. But seeing the upper flag (which I've seen a million times) has now confused me. Thanx[/quote]
A matte box performs three functions--
1) It shades the lens from stray light. This isn't a trivial function, and the lens hood that comes with the DVX only does a fair to middling job, particularly when you're shooting exteriors. Alternatively you can flag off any light hitting the lens.
2) It also acts as a multiple filter holder and allows for the rotation of grads and polarizers. Without a matte box, you can buy 72mm screw in filters, but you'll still need some system to hold and position a grad.
3) Some people think it looks cool.
I'm only being partially facetious here. Maybe you need to impress a client or help convince actors you're legit. Some filmmakers just want to look cool. That's ok by me because, unlike a coffee-can sized exhaust pipe on a Honda Civic, a matte box has an actual function--even if you only buy it to look cool.[quote author=TimeKoder13 link=board=Links;num=1107437657;start=15#18 date=02/23/05 at 20:44:53]Actually, Barry_S what's the matte box for? I initially thought it was a framing assistant, then I thought it was to keep out glare from the sun & lights. But seeing the upper flag (which I've seen a million times) has now confused me. Thanx[/quote]