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Building Medusa: The Perfect DIY Fire Light

July 11, 2012

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You will learn:

How to use a Medusa Light for a scene.
The tools and materials needed to start building.
Use practical sources from home to create your light.
How to use this tool safely on set.
How to manipulate fire looks by using DIY sources.
Understanding how to use an uneven source to create cinematic images.
Understanding how to properly use dimmers to get your look.
Which gels to use to achieve your light quality?
The tricks and tips when using this light source on the job.

The look of fire has always been one of the most alluring sources that one could harness. The uneven and organic look of the light is dream-like and hypnotizing. While it looks beautiful, it doesn’t always emit a lot of light and can be extremely hard to control when on the job. Once you bring in a bunch of other lights and solutions, it becomes cumbersome and too much work.

Shane Hurlbut, ASC designed a versatile and mobile solution to creating that fire look. Utilizing only items from household and store items, he created a fire light that is based on Medusa’s hair. It creates an easy-to-use source that anyone can build for a nominal fee. This article breaks down what tools and materials you’ll need to create this light. You’ll leave with a tool ready for your next shoot!

Get this now in The Filmmaker’s Guide to DIY Lighting

Schedule 1-on-1 Video Call with Shane Hurlbut, ASC

Looking for mentorship in the film industry? Schedule a 1-on-1 meeting with Shane Hurlbut, ASC today! This is where you can get expert advice from an industry professional on your career or a particular project.

About Filmmakers Academy Cinematographer Mentor Shane Hurlbut, ASC

Director of photography Shane Hurlbut, ASC works at the forefront of cinema. He’s a storyteller, innovator, and discerning collaborator, who brings more than three decades of experience to his art. He is a member of the American Society of Cinematographers, the International Cinematographers Guild/Local 600, and The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

Hurlbut frequently joins forces with great directors: McG’s Netflix Rim of the World and The Babysitter, plus Warner Bros. We Are Marshall and Terminator: Salvation; Scott Waugh’s Need for Speed and Act of Valor; and Gabriele Muccino’s There Is No Place Like Home and Fathers and Daughters. His additional film credits include Semi-Pro; The Greatest Game Ever Played; Into the Blue; Mr 3000; Drumline; 11:14, which earned Hurlbut a DVDX nomination; and The Skulls. Notably, his television credits include the first season of AMC’s Into the Badlands.