What are Matte Boxes?

A

andybiz_2005

Well-known member
Hi all,

I read some threads here about matte boxes for the DVX100 & 100A.

I'm still wondering what are matteboxes. Are they the trapeziod-shaped hoods that mount on the front of the camera lens? They make the DVX look a lot more "professional" & like a film camera, but what really are their uses? Do they enhance the quality of the images? What items are typically found in a matte box? Why are they used & during what situations? Thanks in advance for your helpful info. Any related articles on matteboxs would be useful.

Andrew
 
I see. Thanks Jofes6. Do you know any websites out there that teach you how to D.I.Y. your own mattebox? I like to create things with my hands. Can I make one out of hard cardboard? Thanks.

Andrew
 
I think they were originally called "matte" boxes as they held matte paintings or masks back in the day for actual live compositing of images in filming.

Now, they are used for controlling flare and also the ability to use/stack filters in font of the lens. Most good matte boxes offer several 4x4 filter slots to stack filters in front of the lens.

For a great, inexpensive matte box, I highly recommend the indieSnap. I got the HD matte box for my 100B. http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/showthread.php?t=52269

-GageFX
 
Matte boxes are also required to get the best performance out of great actors like Kiefer Sutherland. And they make the camera look professional and sexy.
 
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