Baby / Junior Triple Header
A Baby / Junior Triple Header is a specialized rigging crossbar used to mount multiple fixtures onto a single heavy-duty stand. As the name suggests, this tool features three separate mounting points. It allows a filmmaker to place three lights, monitors, or wireless accessories in a perfectly level row. By consolidating several pieces of equipment onto one stand, crews can save valuable floor space and simplify complex lighting setups.
Versatile Mounting Options
Like most professional grip hardware, triple headers are available in two primary sizes to accommodate different industry standards.
| Baby Triple Header | This version features three 5/8-inch (16mm) pins. It is the go-to choice for smaller LED panels, Fresnel units, or lightweight accessories. |
| Junior Triple Header | This robust version provides three 1-1/8-inch (28mm) receivers. It is designed to support the immense weight of large cinema fixtures, such as high-output HMIs or heavy-duty softboxes. |
Practical Applications on Set
The triple header is a favorite tool for creating specific lighting effects and organizing equipment carts.
Lighting Effects and Gags
Cinematographers frequently use triple headers for “lighting gags” or special effects. For example, to simulate the flickering glow of a fire, a gaffer might rig three lights to a triple header. Each light is then plugged into a flicker box or dimmer set to a different pattern. This creates a more organic, moving light source. Additionally, it is the perfect tool for a “headlight gag,” where two outer lights simulate the beams of an approaching vehicle.
Wireless and DIT Carts
Beyond the lighting department, Digital Imaging Technicians (DITs) and camera assistants utilize triple headers to organize wireless video systems. By mounting a baby triple header to a monitor cart, a technician can neatly rig multiple wireless video transmitters and receivers. This keeps the antennas at the same height and prevents a cluttered, “rat’s nest” of cables on the workspace.
Essential Safety Practices
Because a triple header extends the weight away from the center of the stand, it requires careful attention to balance and stability.
| 1. | Always Use a Combo Stand | Never mount a triple header—especially a Junior version—on a lightweight C-stand. Always use a heavy-duty Combo stand or a Crank-vator that can handle the combined weight of the bar and three fixtures. |
| 2. | Symmetrical Loading | Whenever possible, mount your lights symmetrically. If you only use two lights, place them on the outer pins to keep the weight distributed evenly over the center of the stand. |
| 3. | Sandbag the Base | This is a mandatory safety step. Use multiple heavy sandbags on the legs of the stand to prevent the rig from tipping. |
| 4. | Secure the Pins | Ensure that every light is securely tightened to its pin or receiver. Because these fixtures are often positioned close together, a loose light could swing and damage the equipment next to it. |
