Canadian camera accessories manufacturer SHAPE has released a new Swing-Away Matte Box with some unique features that make it a compelling entry into what was a stagnant accessory category. This new matte box features magnets, a fantastic tray locking design, and an adjustable height knob to raise and lower the whole matte box. I took the matte box out for a spin (or is it a swing?) on a several-weeks-long unannounced production. Here are my thoughts. This is one snazzy-looking matte box. At first glance, no corners appear to have been cut on design. The little pops of red, now a hallmark of SHAPE products, look great. However, I admit to worrying that I might have to gaff tape to kill any unwanted camera-op cameo on a reflective set at some point. I will also admit that’s a minor quibble. SHAPE Swing-Away Matte Box – First impressions Though in the past, I’ve been drawn to clip-on matte boxes (SHAPE makes those, too), my love of vintage lenses has led me back to the trusty swing-away design because older vintage lenses can’t support much weight. And yet, the design remains essential of course. When executed poorly, a swing-away matte box can add precious production time to a simple lens swap. Image Credit: Graham Sheldon I have used previous SHAPE matte box designs in the past, and I’ll be honest, I wasn’t a huge fan. Connecting the box with the camera in user-friendly ways wasn’t happening. That’s not the case here. A...
Published By: CineD - Tuesday, 2 November, 2021