Lee 129

Overview

Lee 129 is the designation for the diffusion filter "Heavy Frost" from the British manufacturer Lee Filters. It is not a color correction filter, but a pure diffusion filter from the diffusion range. The filter is placed in front of the light source (in the filter frame of a fixture, in a frame, or directly in front of the diffusion glass) to transform hard light into soft, nearly shadowless light, while maintaining the basic direction of the beam. Within the Lee Frost family, the 129 belongs to the stronger diffusion grades ("Heavy"); it diffuses significantly more strongly than, for example, the lighter Frost variants.

Technical Data

Values according to manufacturer's data sheet (Lee Filters):

Available formats (selection according to manufacturer):

• Full Sheet: 1.22 m x 0.53 m (48" x 21")
• Half Sheet: 0.61 m x 0.53 m (24" x 21")
• Roll: 7.62 m x 1.22 m (25' x 48"), available with 1" and 2" core
• Custom widths from approx. 2.5 cm to 1.17 m at 7.62 m length

Use on Set

Heavy Frost is used when a strong softening of the light is desired without having to set up a separate diffusion surface. Typical applications include smoothing skin tones, reducing harsh shadows, and creating a soft, even light character directly at the fixture. Since the filter absorbs about two stops of light, the corresponding loss of brightness must be accounted for in exposure and power planning. The flame-retardant design allows for use near hot lights; however, sufficient distance should be maintained between the filter and heat-generating fixtures. Like all Frost filters, the 129 can be cut to size and mounted in filter frames, frames, or clamps.