24x36 Flag

18x24 flag flag french flag top flag 4x4 floppy floppy cut cutter

24x36 rectangular grip flag with steel frame and fabric surface for precise light shaping and shadowing on set.

Overview

A "24x36 Flag" is not a light source, but rather grip equipment for light control. It refers to a rectangular flag (also called a "cutter") with a frame size of 24 x 36 inches (approx. 61 x 91 cm). The measurement refers to the inner frame, not the entire unit. It is a common industry standard size offered by numerous manufacturers – including Matthews, American Grip, Modern Studio Equipment, and Kupo – in nearly identical designs. It belongs to the same family as smaller and larger flags (e.g., 18x24, 24x30, 48x48 inches).

The standard version is a solid (black flag): an opaque, black fabric on a metal frame. This is used to block, cut, or shade light. However, other fabrics are also available in the same frame size – such as single and double nets (for dimming) or silks (for diffusion).

Construction and Technical Specifications

Frame size: 24 x 36 inches (approx. 61 x 91 cm).
Frame: Metal frame, made of steel or stainless steel depending on the manufacturer, with fabric covering.
Fabric: Solid (opaque black) as standard; alternatively nets (single/double net) or silks.
Mounting: Welded pin (spud) with a 3/8 inch diameter (9.5 mm) for insertion into a grip head on a C-stand.

A related design is the "floppy": a solid flag with a second fabric layer attached to one edge by Velcro or hinges. When folded down, it nearly doubles the shading area without needing to rig a second flag.

Use on Set

The 24x36 flag is mounted via a grip head on a C-stand and positioned precisely between the light source and the subject. Typical applications:

Creating light edges and shaping light fall-off (cut), for example, to darken a wall or limit a light cone.
Blocking spill light from adjacent sources.
Protecting the lens from stray light and flares (as a "French flag" or eyebrow close to the camera).
Negative fill: Shading one side of the subject to create contrast.

The 24x36 size is considered a versatile all-rounder: large enough for most actor cuts and negative fill tasks, yet still manageable enough for quick repositioning. Multiple flags can be combined to create larger surfaces or "boxes."

From the crafts

Perspectives

Cinematographer

As a cinematographer, I use 24x36 flags strategically to eliminate unwanted light reflections from my frame and create precise shadow edges. I especially use them on close-ups to partially shade one side of a face, thereby generating more dimensionality and drama.

Director

For me, flags are important tools to enhance the emotional impact of a scene – through targeted shading, I can make characters appear more mysterious or threatening. I work closely with lighting to achieve the desired mood and atmosphere through the use of flags.

Producer

Flags like the 24x36 are cost-effective but essential grip equipment that must be in every basic kit. They make it possible to avoid expensive additional lighting, as existing light can simply be shaped precisely, which saves time and budget.