Paul C. Buff, Inc. Technical Forum

Hello,
So I'm a filmmaker, one of my most valuable assets is a constant power lighting kit of tungsten Fresnels by the Arri company. I have three sizes, 150, 300, & 650watt lights (probably only plan on adapting the 650s, maybe a 300) but am also considering a 1000w light. Since I do a lot of my video shooting with a high DSLR (Nikon's D800 with lenses like the 24mm & 85mm F/1.4s), I do occasionally dabble in photography. I've wanted to buy a complete outfit of Paul's flashes but just haven't had the justification to spend the money yet. However I have to purchase some light modifiers now for my fresnels and if I can get Paul C Buff soft\octa boxes and adapt them, then it will save me a bundle of having to buy more expensive soft-boxes built for film lights and I'll be able to pick up a flash or two with the extra money.

So now you know what I want to do, Has anyone done such a thing? And if so can they make recommendations?

Thanks in advance!

Skyler

The difference in softboxes for continuous lighting and flash lighting is typically heat resistance and/or air flow. Our softboxes are fairly tightly sealed, and do not promote the type of airflow needed to keep stuff cool. Additionally, we have not heat tested any of our modifiers beyond the 250W incadescent's temperatures, and cannot gurantee they will hold up to the heat generated by a 600-1000W light.

However, most continuous lighting softboxes can be adapted for use with flash lighting with the use of the correct speed ring. Most manufacturers make a speedring for use with Balcar/PCB mounts.

Also, only softboxes and umbrellas/PLM's would be more or less adaptable to other brands of lights (heat not withstanding). Our beauty dishes, sports reflectors, etc. have an opening integral to the design of the reflector which cannot be removed or easily altered.