Contrary to advertising hype, more sensitive cameras have not removed the requirement for adequate light levels, particularly in high-contrast situations. Nevertheless, there is no longer the need to go for raw power at the expense of light quality. Portable equipment on a budget leads naturally towards tungsten and the three-head kit offers the classic combination of key, fill and backlight in an easily transportable package.
Kits traditionally consisted of open-face heads such as the
ARRILITE, which are highly efficient, though not generally a flattering choice of key. These are now more usefully employed as a soft source, either bounced, diffused or with a softbox. Including Fresnel spotlights such as
ARRI Juniors in the kit gives greater versatility. Though less efficient, they give a more controllable light with more natural shadows. Focus is adjustable from less than 10 to more than 55 degrees. Ideal for kits are the 150, 300 and 650W heads though models up to 5kW are available.
Fluorescent is a step up in cost but allows changing between daylight and tungsten colour just by changing tubes. High frequency ballasts eliminate any risk of flicker.
ARRI Studio Cool fixtures are available as 2, 4 or a wide 2+2 tube version.
For hard-source daylight, metal halide 'MSR' discharge gives 3-4 times the efficiency of tungsten without requiring filtering to match daylight. Three ranges are available - narrow angle 'PAR' spotlights - the
ARRISUNs and
POCKETPARs; controllable
ARRI Compact Fresnel spotlights and super wide
ARRI X Floodlights.
