Kino flos

Definition

Kino flos are a type of fluorescent lighting that are widely used in film and video production for their ability to provide soft, even illumination. They are especially popular because they produce very little heat compared to traditional lighting, making them suitable for prolonged shooting sessions. Kino flos come in different sizes and color temperatures, allowing for versatility in various lighting setups.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Kino flos are known for their high color accuracy, making them ideal for capturing true-to-life skin tones and colors in video.
2. They are available in different configurations, including single tubes and larger fixtures, which can hold multiple tubes for greater light output.
3. Kino flos can be powered by AC power or battery packs, offering flexibility for on-location shoots.
4. These lights have low flicker rates, making them suitable for high frame rate shooting or when shooting with cameras that are sensitive to flicker.
5. Kino flos can be used in various setups, including interviews, narrative filmmaking, and commercial work due to their versatility and ease of use.

Review Questions

• How do kino flos differ from traditional incandescent lighting in terms of heat production and light quality?
  • Kino flos produce significantly less heat compared to traditional incandescent lights, which makes them more comfortable to use during long shoots as they reduce the risk of overheating both the crew and the equipment. Additionally, kino flos provide a softer light quality with minimal harsh shadows, thanks to their fluorescent tubes that diffuse light evenly. This quality enhances the overall look of video productions by creating a more flattering appearance for subjects.
• Discuss the advantages of using kino flos over LED lights in a video production environment.
  • While LED lights are known for their energy efficiency and compact size, kino flos have advantages such as superior color rendering capabilities which result in more accurate skin tones and vibrant colors. Additionally, kino flos produce a very soft light which can be crucial for certain styles of cinematography where smooth transitions between highlights and shadows are desired. Their proven track record and consistency in professional environments make them a trusted choice for many filmmakers.
• Evaluate the role of kino flos in creating specific moods or atmospheres in video production, providing examples of how their characteristics influence storytelling.
  • Kino flos play a significant role in shaping the mood and atmosphere of a scene due to their soft light quality and adjustable color temperatures. For instance, a cool white setting from kino flos can create a clinical or sterile feel appropriate for a dramatic scene set in a hospital, while warmer tones might evoke comfort and intimacy during an emotional moment between characters. The flexibility to mix different tube colors allows filmmakers to manipulate lighting effectively to support the narrative's emotional beats, enhancing storytelling through visual aesthetics.

Related terms

Softbox: A softbox is a type of lighting modifier that diffuses light to create a soft, even illumination, reducing harsh shadows.

LED Lights: LED lights are energy-efficient lighting options that produce less heat and offer various color temperatures and dimming capabilities, increasingly popular in video production.

Key Light: The key light is the primary light source used to illuminate the subject, establishing the overall exposure and mood of the scene.