CL-255 and 455 Opinions by Duncan Say / United Kingdom
I recently purchased a CL-455 and CL-255 fluorescent light fixtures for use in location filming. I have used two tungsten kits on location up to now. A Sachtler 650 reporter kit and an Arri light 650 kit. Matching with daylight has always been the major problem with these kits and using filters cuts down considerably on the amount of light available. Added to this I’ve always been a fan of diffuse light and have used umbrellas and other diffusion materials to create the look I’m after. The fluorescent kits are fantastic in that they allow the full wattage to be used to light the subject making interviews with window backgrounds much more possible. So no light loss through a filter and no light loss through a diffuser.
I have found the CL-455 and CL-255 to be a good match, using one as a key light and the other as a fill; and the fact that you can turn off one bank of lights on the CL-455 means that you can make an even spread more easily. They also been good used to light a blue chromakey background where the daylight matched fluorescent tubes can really punch out a lot of blue.
My main concerns were about the robustness of the light fixtures and the quality of the light that they produce and both counts they have exceeded my expectations.
The fixtures are both extremely well built and very robust. You should note though that they are no lightweights and taking them on location is a commitment.
If your looking for a new lighting kit these come highly recommended.
Duncan Say
Directions Films Ltd
United Kingdom
