Versatile aluminum clamp by Matthews Studio Equipment with 50mm jaw width, 5/8″ stud, and 30-second mount for lights up to 20kg.
The standard Cardellini Clamp weighs 1.8 kg and is constructed from anodized aluminum with steel components. The clamping range extends from fully closed to a maximum opening of 50 mm, while the Super Cardellini version achieves a span of up to 75 mm. The integrated 5/8-inch spud is rotatable 360° and pivotable 180°. The knurled rubber padding on the jaws prevents scratches and increases grip. A 30 cm safety chain is integrated as standard. Variants include the Mini Cardellini for lighter applications (up to 11 kg load capacity) and the Super Cardellini for extreme conditions.
Kenny Cardellini developed the first version in 1982 out of the need to position lights flexibly and quickly on low-budget productions. The official market launch was in 1985 through Matthews Studio Equipment. In the 1990s, the design was optimized with improved material alloys and the pivotable pin. The Mini version was added in 2003, and the Super Cardellini in 2008. The latest generation from 2018 integrates a quick-release mechanism that speeds up clamp release by 40%.
On "Blade Runner 2049" (2017), DoP Roger Deakins used Cardellini Clamps to mount LED panels in the confined spinner cockpits without damaging the set. Typical applications include clamping Dedolight projectors to window frames for sunlight simulation or attaching LED tubes to ceiling beams for ambient lighting. Setup takes under 30 seconds, whereas conventional C-stand solutions require several minutes. Disadvantages appear on uneven or very smooth surfaces where clamping force is reduced.
Unlike Mafer clamps, the Cardellini Clamp offers a wider span and higher load capacity but is less compact. Manfrotto Super Clamps are more affordable but only achieve a 15 kg load capacity. Modern alternatives such as the TRU-Clamp from TRU-Color or magnetic mounting systems replace the Cardellini in specific applications. For smooth metal pipes, the Cardellini is preferred; for rough wooden beams, C-Clamps are more suitable. In the LED era, it remains the standard for medium-weight lights between 5-20 kg.
Als DoP schätze ich die Cardellini-Klemme für spontane Lichtpositionierung in beengten Sets, wo normale Stative keinen Platz finden. Besonders bei Available-Light-Ergänzung kann ich damit LED-Panels präzise an Fensterrahmen klemmen, um natürlich wirkendes Sonnenlicht zu simulieren. Die 360°-Drehbarkeit des Pins ermöglicht mir exakte Lichtrichtung ohne Kompromisse bei der Befestigung.
Ich nutze Cardellini-Klemmen strategisch für versteckte Lichtquellen, die in der Kulisse unsichtbar bleiben sollen – etwa LED-Strips hinter Spiegeln oder unter Tischen für dramatische Unterbeleuchtung. Diese Flexibilität erlaubt mir, auch in Originallocations ohne Umbaumaßnahmen atmosphärische Akzente zu setzen. Spontane Lichtstimmungen entstehen dadurch direkter und authentischer.
Eine Cardellini-Klemme kostet 280 Euro, spart aber täglich 2-3 Stunden Aufbauzeit gegenüber komplexen Stativ-Konstruktionen und reduziert das Risiko von Kulissenbeschädigungen erheblich. Bei Location-Drehs minimiert sie Versicherungsansprüche, da keine Bohrungen oder Schrauben nötig sind. Pro Drehtag rechne ich mit 150 Euro Ersparnis durch schnellere Setups und weniger Grip-Personal.
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