Sourcemaker Blanket: flexible LED mat with 576 individually controllable pixels, IP65-rated, 2.700–6.500K color temperature range, designed for practical lighting in confined spaces.
The 2x1 Blanket features 576 individual LED pixels with a resolution of 24x12 LEDs, achieving a maximum brightness of 1,800 Lux at a distance of 1 meter. The color temperature is continuously adjustable between 2,700K and 6,500K, with a CRI of >95. Each pixel can be individually controlled via DMX512 or the proprietary SourcemakerOS software. The waterproof IP65 construction allows for outdoor shooting, and power is supplied via 24V DC with a maximum consumption of 120W. Available sizes range from the 1x1 Blanket (305x305mm) to the 4x2 Blanket (1220x610mm).
Sourcemaker introduced the first Blankets in 2018 in response to the growing demand for malleable LED solutions. The Californian company developed the concept out of frustration that conventional LED panels were too rigid for complex lighting setups. The second generation followed in 2020 with improved pixel density and integrated wireless control. The current third generation, since 2022, offers expanded effect possibilities and a 40% increase in light output.
Sourcemaker Blankets are preferably used as practical light sources, for example, as illuminated monitors, displays, or futuristic wall elements. In "Blade Runner 2049," several 4x2 Blankets simulated the characteristic hologram projections in K's apartment. The flexibility allows for lighting tight spaces by wrapping the mats around columns or adapting them to curved surfaces. As eye lights, the Blankets are particularly suitable for close-ups due to their large-area, soft light distribution and low heat generation.
Compared to rigid LED panels like Arri SkyPanels, Sourcemaker Blankets offer significantly more creative freedom but achieve only about 60% of their light output per square meter. OLED panels from Rosco are even more flexible but considerably dimmer at a maximum of 200 Lux and more expensive. LiteGear LiteMat systems are similar in application but are not pixel-controllable and thus unsuitable for effects. For pure area lighting, traditional softboxes remain more cost-effective, while Blankets play to their strengths in creative lighting effects and confined spaces.
Als DoP schätze ich die Sourcemaker Blankets für ihre Vielseitigkeit in engen Sets, wo ich sie um Hindernisse wickeln oder als Bouncer verwenden kann. Die pixelweise Steuerung ermöglicht subtile Lichtverläufe und praktische Effekte direkt in der Kamera, ohne aufwendige Post-Production. Allerdings muss ich bei der Lichtplanung bedenken, dass sie bei weitem nicht die Power eines vergleichbaren Arri-Panels haben.
Ich nutze die Blankets gerne als narrative Elemente, die gleichzeitig Lichtquelle und Storytelling-Device sind - sei es als futuristische Wandverkleidung oder pulsierender Herzmonitor. Die Möglichkeit, Farben und Intensitäten in Echtzeit zu ändern, gibt mir am Set die Flexibilität, verschiedene emotionale Stimmungen sofort auszuprobieren. Das spart Zeit gegenüber herkömmlichen Farbfolien und Dimmern.
Mit 2.800€ für ein 2x1 Blanket sind die Anschaffungskosten hoch, aber der Zeitgewinn am Set rechtfertigt oft die Investition. Ein Set kann mehrere herkömmliche Leuchten ersetzen und reduziert Grip-Equipment sowie Aufbauzeit erheblich. Allerdings benötige ich speziell geschulte Techniker für die komplexe Steuerung, was die Personalkosten in die Höhe treibt.
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