Adjustable C-clamp fixture for mounting lights to C-Stands with 16mm stud holes and variable tube receptacle (13-48mm).
Standard Kupos feature two 16mm (5/8 inch) bores for mounting studs and can securely clamp tubing diameters from 13mm to 48mm. The wingnut's clamping force generates a pressure of up to 2,500 Newtons per cm². Special variants such as Baby Kupos (smaller version for 3/8-inch studs) or Maxi Kupos (for tubing up to 60mm diameter) expand their range of applications. The galvanized steel construction weighs 280 grams as standard and can handle working loads of up to 40 kg when correctly mounted.
Matthews Studio Equipment developed the first standardized Kupo in 1947 for Hollywood productions after improvised pipe clamps had led to accidents. The characteristic toothing was developed in 1952 through a collaboration with Manfrotto and increased slip resistance by 300%. From the 1970s onwards, the Kupo system established itself internationally, with German manufacturers like Avenger integrating additional safety features such as overload protection. Modern Kupos made of anodized aluminum have reduced weight by 40% since 2008 while maintaining the same load capacity.
Camera crews use Kupos to attach side lights to C-stands, with the 360° rotation enabling precise light direction. In "Blade Runner 2049" (2017), over 200 Kupos secured the complex LED lighting in the city scenes. Typical workflow: Mount Kupo on C-stand, hang light, adjust position, tighten wingnut with 3-4 turns. The quick tool-free setup reduces changeover times from 5 to 2 minutes per fixture.
Kupos differ from rigid lamp clamps through their variable tubing diameter capacity and 360° mobility. While Super Clamps offer higher clamping force (up to 75 kg), they require 10mm studs instead of the more flexible tubing mount. Modern quick-release systems like the Arca-Swiss system replace Kupos for lightweight LED panels but cannot match the mechanical reliability for heavy tungsten fixtures. Magnetic mounts only work on steel structures and offer a holding force of only 15 kg.
Ich verwende Kupos täglich zur schnellen Neupositionierung von Seitenlichtern während der Dreharbeiten – die 360°-Verstellung erlaubt mir präzise Anpassungen ohne Stativ-Umbau. Bei schweren 2K-Tungsten-Leuchten verlasse ich mich auf die bewährte Klemmkraft, während ich bei LED-Panels oft zu schnelleren Magnet- oder Quick-Release-Systemen greife.
Kupos ermöglichen mir flexible Lichtführung in beengten Räumen, wo traditionelle Stative nicht passen – ich kann Atmosphäre schaffen durch Leuchten, die an Türrahmen oder Möbeln befestigt werden. Die stufenlose Positionierung hilft mir, Lichtstimmungen während der Probe anzupassen, ohne den Dreh zu unterbrechen.
Ein 10-teiliges Kupo-Set kostet 400 Euro, spart aber täglich 30 Minuten Rigging-Zeit gegenüber starren Befestigungen – das entspricht bei einer 40-Drehtage-Produktion Einsparungen von 2.000 Euro an Gaffer-Lohnkosten. Die Universalität reduziert zudem den Equipment-Transport um etwa 15%, da weniger spezifische Klemmen mitgeführt werden müssen.
1. Zu welchem Department gehört „Kupo"?
2. Wie viele verschiedene Fachperspektiven bietet dieser Eintrag?
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