Walter Royle

This is an interesting question. I have found that the 24x36 and 4x4 are the most useful. For small shoots the 4x4 is so important for negative fill and sun blockage. As well as reflection issues that arise. Having some empty 4x4 frames with diffusion is also great for day exterior. The 24x36 is so versatile for light shaping and flare issues.

We use three phase over here with five wire banded. If you are doing a long run of cable we jump up to 2/0 cable and use 4/0 cable for even longer runs. Single phase is also used, but usually on smaller shoots. #2 banded cable can carry 115Amps per hot leg 2/0 cable can carry 175amps per hot leg 4/0 cable can carry 230 amps of power per hot leg

I like to put a bag on the big leg and a back leg. Whenever Im doing any kind of offset rig. Especially with a C stand. I have seen people walk in to a stand on set, so I always double bag.

The best way to make a 1k dimmer is to use quality parts. At www.cinegearstore.com we make our own dimmers and sell them. The key is to use a leveton 100w dimmer with a heat sink. These will cost you about $50 . The edison connectors should be hubbel brand but you can save a few bucks by using leveton. We buy the exterior duplex boxes from home depot. These are made of a heavy duty plastic. The strain reliefs are from home depot as well and are made of plastic. All inside wiring should be sealed with heat shrink and use butt connectors or solder. With all the time and cost it makes more sense to buy them. We don't have them listed on the website, but if you would like a quote. Please email sales@cinegearstore.com

I have used every menace arm made, including fabricating my own. The best one for me was the modern menace arm. I always used speedrail. Never over the overall length of 20'. Of course that is depending on what I am putting on it. One thing that might seem obvious but seemed to sometimes be overlooked is making sure you always have one leg of the stand forward, pointing the same way as the arm is extended. The straps help but dont over crank the support straps.

I have 2 3tons and have found that putting everything on wheels is the way to go. I have 2 c stand carts, 4by, Doesall, sandbag cart and set cart.

You have plenty to rig from up high. Scissor clips, cardellinis or any other assorted clamps will let you quickly rig the lights up high. You can have that restaurant rigged pretty quickly overhead.

There are no copyrights at all. There are now multiple manufacturers of C-stands both standard and mini. American stands are by far the best. They hold the most weight and the grip doesnt cause you to have wrist surgery in 10 yrs.

Candlesticks with a clamp is the safest way. Chain vise grips will do but if you can use a chesboro it is much better. This hardware can be purchased online. Here is a link that has some candle stick makers, candle sticks and other cool boom lift rigging hardware.