Lee 270

Overview

Lee 270 is the product number for the so-called "LEE Scrim" from the filter and reflector range of the British manufacturer LEE Filters. It is not a color or diffusion gel, but a perforated reflector material: one side is silver and produces a very soft reflection, the other side is black. In the Lee numbering system, 270 belongs to the group of reflectors and scrims (e.g., 271 Mirror Silver, 273 Soft Silver Reflector, 275 Black Scrim) and should be distinguished from the white diffusion gels (216, 250 ff.).

Construction and Function

The material consists of a perforated, metallized foil on a perforated black vinyl backing. Due to the perforation, it acts simultaneously as a reflector and as a light-transmitting scrim:

• Silver side: bounces light with a very soft, diffused reflection – for filling shadows and utilizing existing light.
• Black side: serves as a light-absorbing, neutral surface or for controlling spill light.
• Used as a scrim (e.g., in front of a window or a light source), the perforated material reduces light intensity.

Set Usage

Lee 270 is used in the studio and on location: as a gentle bounce to fill shadows, to soften harsh daylight, or – stretched across a window – to dampen incoming daylight. The two differently acting sides make it flexible; by simply flipping it, one can switch between soft reflection and an absorbing surface.

Available Formats (Manufacturer Specifications)

According to dealer information (LEE Filters Direct), when used as a scrim, it results in a light reduction of approximately 1.5 stops (approx. 36% transmission). Since the material is primarily intended as a reflector/scrim and not as a calibrated filter gel, this value should be understood as a guideline.