What a Butterfly Frame Does for Your Lighting
A butterfly frame is a large, rigid frame system that lets you fly diffusion, silks, or solids overhead to shape sunlight, kill harsh top light, or build a soft top source over a scene. On outdoor narrative and commercial shoots, it's the tool for real sun control when you need a consistent, soft top light over talent or a set.
The FPS 12x12' Modular Overhead Butterfly Frame is a 12-foot by 12-foot frame designed for bigger shoots. This size works well for outdoor scenes with talent on the move, as well as larger studio and corporate setups where the space accommodates a 12x12 footprint.
What's Included and What's Not
- FPS 12 x 12' Modular Overhead Butterfly Frame: The FPS 12x12' Modular Overhead Butterfly Frame is a 12-foot by 12-foot rigid frame system for flying large diffusion, silks, or solids overhead. The frame itself provides the structure; you must supply the diffusion, silk, or solid material and the rigging hardware to attach and fly it.
FPS 12 x 12' Modular Overhead Butterfly Frame - FPS 12 x 12' Modular Overhead Butterfly Frame: This is the frame only; diffusion, silk, and rigging hardware are sold separately. Before your shoot, ensure you have compatible diffusion or silk panels and appropriate rigging (ropes, clamps, stands or truss mounts) to safely suspend the frame.
Setting Up the Frame for Overhead Use
The modular design means you assemble the frame sections to create the 12x12 shape. Work on a clean, level surface. Connect each section securely per the manufacturer's instructions (not supplied here), ensuring all joints are tight before lifting.
Once assembled, attach your chosen diffusion, silk, or solid material. The frame's rigid structure holds the fabric taut, giving you even light spread without sagging. For outdoor shoots, consider wind conditions—a 12x12 frame catches wind easily, so use proper sandbags or tie-downs on your stands.
Key Steps for Safe Overhead Rigging
- Assemble the frame on the ground: Lay out all frame sections and connect them on a flat surface. Verify all locks and pins are engaged before lifting.
- Attach diffusion or silk: Clip or tie your fabric to the frame edges. Ensure even tension to avoid wrinkles that create uneven light.
- Rig the frame overhead: Use stands or truss mounts rated for the weight of the frame and fabric. Attach rigging hardware (sold separately) at multiple points for stability.
- Secure against wind: Sandbag each stand leg. On windy days, lower the frame or use wind breaks. Never leave an unattended frame rigged outdoors.
What to Verify Before Your Shoot
Check that your stands or truss system can support the 12x12 frame's weight and wind load. Confirm you have the correct diffusion or silk for your desired light quality—full grid cloth for soft, even light, or solids for negative fill. And always have enough rigging hardware on hand; the frame doesn't include any.
The FPS 12x12' Modular Overhead Butterfly Frame is available from Filmgear Canada with Canada-wide shipping. Plan ahead to ensure everything arrives in time for your setup day.
