Photographers
and videographers use fabric scrims to control and manipulate light. Scrims are lightweight because they’re typically made of fabrics like silk, nylon, or thin
wire mesh. The most common uses for scrims include softening, diffusing, or
shaping natural or artificial light sources. They basically help to create more
flattering and controlled lighting conditions for photography subjects.
Common Types of Fabric
Scrims
Scrims come
in a range of sizes, shapes, and materials. Choosing the right scrim for your
needs depends on what exactly you want to achieve for your shoot.
Diffusion
Scrims
These
semi-transparent scrims filter harsh light sources by reducing contrast and
softening the hard edges of shadows. Diffusion scrims create a flattering,
balanced light on your subject.
Reflective
Scrims
Reflective
scrims bounce and redirect light. They come in various colors and materials,
such as white, silver, or gold, each producing a different quality of reflected
light. Photographers use them to add highlights, fill in shadows, or change the
color temperature of the light on the subject.
Flag
Scrims
Typically
made of black fabric, flag scrims block light. They are commonly used to create
shadows or prevent unwanted light from reaching certain areas of the scene.
Flags help you achieve the precise lighting look you want, and you can use them
to create dramatic effects.
Mounting and Support
Accessories for Scrims
Scrims are
often attached to frames made of lightweight materials like plastic, aluminum,
or fiberglass. These make it easy to position and manipulate the scrims to
control the direction and intensity of the light.
Where to Use Fabric Scrims
Photographers
use fabric scrims both indoors and outdoors, but they’re especially valuable in
outdoor portrait photography to soften and diffuse harsh sunlight. In studio
settings, scrims are most helpful for controlling artificial lighting, so you
can create a more natural and flattering look.
Scrim Kits for Filmmakers
and Photographers
When you’re
shooting on location, it’s important to make sure you have all the gear you
need on hand and ready to go. As lighting conditions change, you may need to
swap out the type of scrim you’re using to keep the lighting consistent.
Investing in a fabric scrim kit ensures you can easily adapt to changing
lighting conditions.
Trusted Brands for
Lighting Equipment
When you’re
working at a professional level, it’s important to have professional-grade
lighting equipment. Advantage
Gripware, ARRI,
K
5600, Matthews,
and Mole-Richardson
are industry favorites for high-quality lighting equipment and accessories.
