2025-10-27 – Weekly Film News : HMIs: New Light Source for 'Sun'?

Last week, our discussions spanned a variety of engaging topics, from technical challenges on set to ethical considerations in storytelling. Members shared insights on lighting techniques, especially the use of HMIs for simulating sunlight, which sparked a lively debate. The ethics of portrayal in historical films also emerged as a key theme, with thoughtful contributions from several filmmakers. Additionally, practical advice on breaking into the film industry was widely shared, offering valuable guidance for newcomers.


This Week’s Hot Topics

Looking for Atlanta rigger, Saturday night gag
Calling all riggers in Atlanta! There’s a unique stunt coming up that needs your expertise. It’s an interesting opportunity if you’re available this Saturday night.
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Civil War and the ethics of looking
This thread dives deep into the responsibilities filmmakers have when depicting historical events. It’s a thoughtful conversation on balancing storytelling with sensitivity.
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Snap zoom or deadpan wide
A technical discussion on the artistic choice between snap zooms and wide shots. This is a must-read for those with a keen eye for cinematography.
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Reliable slow-motion plates for FX timing
For those working with VFX, this thread covers how to achieve precision in slow-motion shots, a crucial aspect of post-production.
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First feature to rely on HMIs for ‘sun’
The use of HMIs as a primary light source for sunlight in filmmaking is being discussed. It’s a significant shift in lighting practices worth exploring.
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2025-10-24 – Weekly Film Jobs : $2500 Sign-On Bonus for Film Installers
Job seekers might want to check out this opportunity, especially with a $2500 sign-on bonus on offer for film installers.
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How Do You Break into the Film Industry?
A perennial favorite, this thread is filled with practical tips and personal stories from those who’ve successfully entered the industry.
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What’s It Really Like Working on a Film Set?
Get a behind-the-scenes look at the realities of film set life. A must-read for anyone considering a career on set.
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Thank you for being a part of our community. Each week brings new opportunities and challenges, and your contributions keep the conversation vibrant. Looking forward to what next week holds.

We leaned on “HMIs for simulating sunlight” on a tight alley day: a single 6K at about 30 ft with 1/2 CTS instead of CTO into a 12x Ultrabounce gave a believable 3 p.m. feel without frying skin tones. If the ballast isn’t flicker‑free, lock 180° (or 144° in 50 Hz regions) and test for roll — curious if anyone else prefers CTS over CTO, since it sells ‘late’ sun better.

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I skip the big bounce and push a 4K HMI as a hard key through 251 at about 40 ft, 1/4 CTS + 1/8 minusgreen to kill the spike, then eat fill with a 12x solid — reads like “3 p.m.” without going mushy. @soph_morris you ever swap that 6K/Ultrabounce for mirror boards to get a crisp sun streak when there’s no tow plant or if you’re flirting with 120 fps flicker?

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