Cinematographer
From a DoP's perspective, this element is essential for the visual design. It allows me to consistently implement the desired color mood and aesthetic image.
300W Tungsten Fresnel spot light with 3,200 K color temperature, compact design ideal for controlled, focusable lighting in tight spaces; made by manufacturers including ARRI (300 Plus).
Overview
A "300W Fresnel" refers to a Fresnel spotlight in the lowest power class: a step-lens spot with a 300-watt tungsten lamp. Characteristic is the ribbed Fresnel step lens, which produces a soft, evenly illuminated light field with a defined edge and can be adjusted from spot to flood. Due to its low power consumption, light weight, and compact design, the 300W is a typical tool for small studios, confined sets, and interviews, where it is used as accent, eye, or effect light (e.g., hair light, kicker).
The best-known fixture in this class is the ARRI 300 Plus from the ARRI Junior series. Other manufacturers (e.g., Ikan, various LED replicas) also offer 300W Fresnel fixtures. The following specific data refers to the ARRI 300 Plus.
Technical Data (ARRI 300 Plus)
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Lamp Wattage | 300 W |
| Lamp Type | CP81 FSL 300 W / 230 V or CP81 FKW 300 W / 120 V |
| Base | GY9.5 |
| Color Temperature | 3,200 K (Tungsten/Artificial Light) |
| Lens Diameter | 80 mm (3.2") |
| Beam Angle (Spot–Flood) | approx. 14° to 53° |
| Net Weight | approx. 2 kg |
| Voltage | 230 V or 120 V (lamp dependent) |
| Dimming | 0–100 % via external dimmer |
| Stand Mount | 5/8" pin (16 mm) on yoke |
Use on Set
The 300W Fresnel is adjusted between spot (narrow, intense beam) and flood (wide, soft illumination) using the focus knob. As a tungsten source, it delivers 3,200 K and is therefore mixable with other artificial light without correction; for daylight setups, it is corrected with conversion gel (CTB). The beam can be precisely cut and shaped using attachable barndoors, gobos, and filter frames. Since tungsten is dimmable, the brightness can be controlled via an external dimmer – whereby dimming shifts the color temperature warmer. Typical applications include small accents, eye lights, hair lights, and effect lights on sets with limited power supply.
From the crafts
Perspectives
Producer
This professional solution increases production efficiency and reduces post-production requirements. It allows for flexible, quick adjustments during the shoot.
Gaffer
As a gaffer, this is an indispensable tool in my daily toolkit. It allows me professional light control and quick adjustments on set, which saves time and ensures quality.
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