Lee 285

Overview

"Lee 285" refers to the lighting filter 285 Three Quarter C.T. Orange by LEE Filters. It is a conversion filter (CTO – Color Temperature Orange) at the "Three Quarter" (3/4) grade, which corrects daylight (approx. 6500 K) towards an artificial light color temperature. The filter sits in the CTO range between the weaker 1/2 CTO and the full CTO and is used to match daylight sources (e.g., HMI, LED in daylight mode, or window light) to a warmer, tungsten-like lighting mood.

CTO filters like the 285 are a standard tool for the lighting department to color-match ("match") different light sources on set or to deliberately give a scene a warmer tint.

Technical Data

Available Formats (according to manufacturer):

• Sheet (Full Sheet): approx. 1.22 m x 0.53 m
• Half Sheet: approx. 0.61 m x 0.53 m
• Roll: approx. 7.62 m x 1.22 m (on 1" or 2" core)

On-Set Use

The 285 is placed in front of the light source – via a filter frame, in the gel slot of the fixture, or with clips on the barndoor. Typical applications:

• Light Matching: Approximating daylight sources to existing artificial light when a full CTO would be too strong.
• Mixed Lighting Situations: Fine-tuning color temperature, for example, in interior shots with window light and a tungsten-balanced camera.
• Creative Warmth: Deliberately tinting light into a warmer range.

Since CTO filters absorb some light, the transmission loss must be considered during exposure planning. For high-power or hot lights, ensure sufficient distance and ventilation to prevent the filter from burning.