Setting Up a Temporary Lighting Grid

[Jim Brennan]

I'll be shooting a feature in April. About 70% of it takes place in the same location (a house). Since we will be renting a vacant house for the month, we are hoping to dress it and get the basic lighting covered before we shoot, and leave most of it set up for the duration. One of the things we had talked about was setting up a temporary grid in the two main rooms we plan to shoot in.

Anyone ever do that, or have any suggestions?

Thanks.

 

[Ryan Patrick O'Hara]

If you have the means and permission you may drill into the walls. If not, wall spreaders or pole cats are the best option, although they only work on small sets/locations. over 10'-12' feet and you are risking considerable safety because of weight and etc.

 

[PDX_DVX]

Ryan hit the nail on the head. Make sure you get someone experienced doing the rigging to ensure it's done safely. Depending on the height of the ceilings, and what you'll see in the scene, rigging truss could be another (although more expensive) option.