One of the most used tools on a Hollywood set, oh heck on any set, is the C-Stand. C in Roman numerals representing the numeral 100 is how the C-Stand got its name, 100’s of uses. When closed it’s 53″ high, it can be extended to 10’6″, it usually is ordered with a 40″ arm and Grip Head. The C-Stand is a very versatile tool in the photographer’s arsenal. Allow me to show you how to take advantage of the C-Stand. One way is a reflector holder:
You simply secure a piece of foamcore or any material that you’re using to reflect light onto the talent. Rotate the 40″ arm into the correct position, secure it, and you’re good to go. This is a great time for me to share some of the correct ways to secure a C-Stand. First, you always adjust the arm so that when you tighten the handle, with the pull of gravity the arm tightens on itself:
Another safety trick that too many people don’t do correctly is with sandbags:
When placing a sandbag, you want to be sure that all the weight is on the leg of the C-Stand. Many people will secure a sandbag onto a stand but the base of the sandbag is on the ground displacing its weight onto the ground instead of on the stand. You can see here how all the weight is on the stand itself.
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- Posted on February 5, 2016
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Mike Kubeisy has been shooting on the sets of Hollywood for over 35 years as a Motion Picture and Television Stills Photographer. “No photographer’s work is seen by more people than Mike’s work worldwide.” – Scott Bourne
Mike is best known for his work on countless popular shows that are household names: “CSI,” “CSI: Miami,” “CSI: NY,” “JAG,” “Boston Legal” and “Pretty Little Liars” to name a few. His current projects are “NCIS” and “NCIS: Los Angeles.”
Mike is a Trainer for KelbyOne. He is also a member of the International Cinematographers Guild.
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Excellent article.
I have always been told that the name C-stand derived from the company that invented them, Century-Strand.
Though they have been proven to have at least a hundred uses, journalistic historical accuracy may help others in some small way.
Great question Leslie, Century also being 100. My sources are Grips, young and old-timers. Just a note, I have never seen a Century-Stand brand. Most C-Stands are Mole Richardson, Norms, Avenger, Kupo, and Matthews. With more coming out monthly. It seems everyone wants to be in the C-Stand business. Thanks for your comment.
Excellent article.
I have always been told that the name C-stand derived from the company that invented them, Century-Strand.
Though they have been proven to have at least a hundred uses, journalistic historical accuracy may help others in some small way.
Great question Leslie, Century also being 100. My sources are Grips, young and old-timers. Just a note, I have never seen a Century-Stand brand. Most C-Stands are Mole Richardson, Norms, Avenger, Kupo, and Matthews. With more coming out monthly. It seems everyone wants to be in the C-Stand business. Thanks for your comment.