Flags?
 

Can someone please recommend me specific products? I find the selection at B&H kind of bewildering. I'm really not familiar with the types of flags that are out there, or what kind of rigging is needed to use them. I have a couple of Totas with translucent umbrellas and Bogen stands that we use a lot, so I'm looking for pretty large flags. Most important, I need a smaller flag that would attach to the camera in some way. It can't attach to the hotshoe. There's too much competition for that spot as it is. It would preferably attach to the handle (GL1) some way, or maybe to the tripod. I'm starting to use filters more and flare is a major problem.

Totas are mean for spill, and getting it under control is a basic part of every DP's job. A couple of 24x36" fags on C-stands or Avenger stands is a start. A dot and finger set allow you to add light dips and highlights in the background a la carte. Try www.msegrip.com for more info. You have to make that site your grip bible. Those guys have it all worked out. Links:

http://www.msegrip.com/mse.php?show=product&cat=43&products_ID=24155

You can get a french flag for the camera with a flexible arm to attach to the tripod, or get a small mattebox, like a Cavision, Chrosziel, Century, Petroff, that can reduce flare altogether. Here is a french flag:

http://www.msegrip.com/mse.php?show=product&cat=43&products_ID=24198

http://www.msegrip.com/mse.php?show=product&cat=43&products_ID=24166

Thanks. Just the info I was looking for.

Anytime!

Or, here is a lower priced alternative to the $79 french flag: flarebuster.com
You can see a brief review of it at http://www.digitalprods.com/flare.htm
For $25-$30 you get a device that does the same thing as the pro version, but weighs less and folds into a very compact space. Take a look.

Wayne Orr, SOC

Thanks. I've looked at the Flarebuster before, but it looks like it only attaches to the hotshoe. Do they also sell a clamp for it or anything?

Take a look in their "order" page and you will see that they make a "Double Clip" version with clips on both ends. My suggestion is pass on the kit and get just the basic Flarebuster and cut a piece of black foamcore (art store) to fashion your own flag to size.

Thanks Wayne.

I recently bought from Adorama their "Grip it Flag" P/N #46042 ; $38.95.
Let me quote from Prosouce,
"The Clamping French Flag is the answer to the old heavy metal flags of the past. Made of durable, black non reflective material, the flag stores compactly by easily breaking the arm apart. In addition, the lightweight clamp attaches onto any matte box, motion picture or video camera. A super strong spring clamp ensures stability. The rubber grip jaw attaches anywhere without scratching. The ultra flexible ball & socket design stays solidly in place. Expanding from 4” to 16”, the arm is hand adjustable by simply removing segments. In addition, the arm comes with a Maglite holder. An adjustable light is created when the two top segments are removed and the Maglite handle is inserted."

Flags ect
 

You can get a set of two barndoors for tota and that will help

Bogen makes superclamp, flex arm and flag that will mount to stand or almost anything really.

You can buy a clamp from lowel with a hotshoe that clamps on stand ... I think?

I would check out the bogen avenger flag kit


Avenger D580, D390

Heavy duty D800 kit

I would look at D580

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