Camera Light

[pdj]

I'm doing some night shooting...not really short movie type stuff rather, a doco style thing which just needs the people (and shot) to be visible. Now my question what strength of light should i be chasing for this? I was looking at this 50w here http://www.videoguys.com.au/scripts/pro ... oduct=1858
Would it be strong enough? How would i power the bugger? 12v batt?

Thoughts?

[UFProductions]

Neat little trick I've used in the past: take one of those 1 Million candlepower handheld spotlights, the kind with a pistol-grip handle. Most have a tripod mount on the bottom of said handle. Using this and a bit o' ingenuity attach the spot to the bottom of your camera. Some diffusion will be necessary, as these things are bright, but when you're spending $10 instead of $150, it's worth the trouble.

[pdj]

Very clever and innovative dude- any brand names people swear by on here??

[UFProductions]

For the handheld spotlights? There is essentially no brand recognition in the market, so your best bet is to simply give the model a good once over in the store. Things to look for: ABS instead of cheaper plastic for the body, metal not plastic reflector, AC and DC charging cable, and, if you can find it, removable battery (they run off a sealed 6 or 12 volt lead-acid battery). If you can find a model with a removable battery it's a good idea to get extra's, they tend not to last more than an hour on full power. Oh, and also, see if you can find one that will run while plugged in too, some don't turn on while charging.

[pdj]

Great help mate! I have found a few places let the testing begin!

[pdj]

I bought a 3million candle power light..and its not strong enough! It's p*ss weak..I will have to take it back and go for something stronger

[UFProductions]

You might have got a dud, my million candle-power ones are stong enough to bounce off clouds at night. The 40 on the other hand... *evil grin*

[pdj]

I think your right- this may be a dud light..I will keep looking

[LoneManFilms]

Ever consider hanging gas lanterns? I had to shoot in the woods at night once, just hung some gas lanters from the branches. Hope that helps, good luck.