4x4 Floppy: a 48"×48" opaque Solid with a hinged fabric flap that extends its blocking area to approximately 48"×90", used for precise light control on set.
The 4x4 Floppy (also known as "Floppy Cutter" or "Floppy Flag") is not a light source but a grip tool for light control. It consists of a rectangular frame with a tightly stretched, completely opaque fabric (a "Solid") to which a second fabric panel is attached along one edge via a hinge. In its transport state, this flap is secured to the frame with Velcro and can be unfolded ("flopped") on set, significantly increasing the area being shaded.
The Floppy is therefore a flexible tool that can be used either as a standard 4x4 cutter or as a much larger shading device without needing to set up a second flag. Like all flags and cutters, it has a mounting pin (spigot) that inserts into the grip head of a C-stand or Century stand.
Dimensions and construction of a typical 4x4 Floppy (manufacturer specifications, e.g., Matthews model 169028T/169028B):
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Size closed | 48" × 48" (approx. 122 × 122 cm) |
| Size unfolded | approx. 48" × 90" (approx. 122 × 229 cm) |
| Fabric | 16 oz black Duvetyne / Commando Cloth (flame-retardant), opaque ("Solid") |
| Frame | Stainless steel (3/8" stainless steel tubing including pin) |
| Hinge variants | Top Hinge / Bottom Hinge |
The designation "4x4" refers to the size of the base area in feet (4 × 4 ft = 48 × 48 inches) and is a common industry standard size for cutters. When unfolded, the Floppy does not achieve an exact doubling: because the additional panel overlaps at the hinge, the height is approximately 90" instead of a calculated 96".
Floppys are offered in two hinge configurations, differing in the position of the unfolding panel relative to the mounting pin:
The 4x4 Floppy is used to cut light ("cut"), block spill light, control reflections, or protect camera lenses from stray light and flares. Since the fabric is a Solid, it completely blocks light (unlike Nets, Silks, or Single/Double scrims, which only dim or diffuse).
The practical advantage lies in its flexibility: if a larger shadow is needed, the flap is released and the Floppy is unfolded to its larger size; for smaller shading needs, the flap remains Velcroed, and the tool functions as a standard 4x4 cutter. This saves setup time and space compared to switching to a larger flag. Floppy cutters are offered by manufacturers such as Matthews, Modern Studio, L.A. Rag House, and MSE Grip, among others.
As a cinematographer, I especially appreciate the 4x4 Floppy for portraits and interviews because it creates naturally soft light that renders skin texture flatteringly. The material's flexibility allows me to precisely control light distribution and avoid unwanted reflections by slightly curving it.
For me, the 4x4 floppy is an indispensable tool to achieve the desired lighting mood and enhance the emotional impact of a scene. The quick changeability between different materials allows me to react spontaneously to creative impulses and try out various look variations.
The 4x4 Floppy is a cost-effective solution because a frame with different fabrics can replace several expensive light sources. Its compact design saves on transport costs, and quick handling reduces lighting times on set, which directly benefits the budget.
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2. Zu welchem Department gehört „4x4 Floppy"?
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