Set Lighting Technician's Handbook: Film Lighting Equipment, Practice, and Electrical Distribution (Paperback)

by Harry C. Box (Author) "The technical aspects of filmmaking - film stocks, cameras, lighting, sound, effects - all involve a myriad of small details that, taken as a whole,..." (more)
Key Phrases: junior receptacle, matth pole, mushroom floods, Kino Flo, New York, Sun Valley (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Review
"Box's style is reminiscent of an old buddy showing his best friend the ropes¦perhaps the most easily read technical handbook to date¦the broadest in scope and coverage, yet carefully covers the essential details."Seth Greenspan, Filmcrew Magazine

"A valuable reference for the professional¦an excellent introduction for the aspiring professional. Harry reminds the reader of the vast array of lighting instruments as well as of their safe, intelligent use."Woody Omens, ASC, professor of Cinematography, USC


"Harry has taken the mystery out of set lighting for the beginner or the pro¦. Current and includes the most up to date tricks of the trade. A book written by a pro who loves and respects his craft and is selfless in sharing information."Mike G. Moyer, gaffer, Steel Magnolias, In the Line of Fire, Ground Hog Day

"The most comprehensive manual I have had the pleasure of obtaining." Dean Bray, business representative, IATSE, Local 728 (Set Lighting)

"The first edition, published several years ago, was highly praised as a handy reference source for the professional, and served as a good learning tool for the aspiring pro. It also became a textbook in many film schools. This updated second edition is vastly improved and includes new equipment listings and a slew of additional reference tables."
- American Cinematographer

"Provides the best in practical designs for day-to-day usage...the book provides a fascinating look inside the profession." Ian Ashdown, Lighting Design and Application -- Review

Review
"There are charts and lists galore. In fact, the book's great virtues are its clarity and its comprehensiveness." - W.A. Vincent for Choice

"Box's book is a romp in the playground of everyday movie magic...the gadgets, their monikers, and the puzzle masters that bring meaning to vanity and career success are explored within the Set Lighting Technician's Handbook." - Mike Dilley, Take 1

"In plain language, Box discusses day-to-day practice on the set, current equipment in use and extensive tricks of teh trade useful to everybody from the director of photography to the gaffer, rigging crew, best boy and lamp operator....Box thoroughly demystifies the world of film lighting."
- Ray Zone, American Cinematographer Magazine

"Having worked in motion picture lighting since 1978 and a Gaffer for 10 years, I can appreciate that [Box] took an approach which can be understood by anyone in the industry...As far as I know, this is the most comprehensive book written about motion picture set lighting, ...covering over 90% of what a set lighting technician actually does when he goes to work."--Russ Caldwell, gaffer

"The language of the book is clear and utilizes a style that assists the reader to assimilate the information into work practices. The appendices are an excellent compilation and I know they are unique to the SLTH. One would have to go to several other lighting and camera books, the National Electric Code Guidebook, and manufacturers' data sheets to look up the same information that has been included by this author"--Michael Gallart, gaffer, rigging gaffer, and best boy

"Anyone looking to learn the art of film and TV could do a lot worse than read this book." - Lighting & Sound --This text refers to the Paperback edition.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 416 pages
• Publisher: Focal Press; 2nd edition (April 1997)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0240802578
• ISBN-13: 978-0240802572
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 5.9 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.4 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.9 out of 5 stars See all reviews (18 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #421,316 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

16 of 16 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The finest book on the subject I've read., May 13, 1999

By	Steve([e-mail]) "donkeyshot" (Sierra Madre, Calif. USA) - See all my reviews

After 22 years in the Hollywood motion picture lighting business, I can attest to the value and accuracy of this book. A magnificent work of hard-won knowledge and vital information for the old pro or beginner. I refer to it often. Well done, Harry.

12 of 12 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Perfect for the experienced, invaluable for the novice., January 21, 2004

By	Tom Howard (Los Angeles, CA) - See all my reviews

If you have any interest in motion picture equipment and lighting, or if you are in the industry already, then this book is a definite must-have. It has become a standard for many crew members in the movie business and is often referred to on set.

This book not only covers many different lights and their practical applications, but also deals with power distribution, electrical wiring, and even set etiquette. It is perfect for learning all there is to know about film lighting, and also makes a fabulous reference book if the subject matter is already familiar to you.

Even if you don't plan on being an electrician, this book provides a wealth of information that everyone should know while on set.

Perfect for the experienced, invaluable for the novice.

8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great Book, will recomend it to our crews., February 23, 1999

By	Rick ([e-mail]) (South Bend, Indiana) - See all my reviews

As a long time theatrical technician I found the book to be very insightfull as to the practices of film lighting world. I wish a book this good was written for stage hands. It is a practical guide to the film lighting business with not just basic information but tips to make you feel like on old pro. After reading it I would feel comfortable taking a work call on a film set any time.