RagLiteYou can never have too many lighting options, especially if they add more flexibility to a not-so-flexible area of filmmaking. The RagLite is essentially what it sounds like -- a fabric-mounted LED lighting system, (or more plainly, a rag with lights), that's built to give users the ability to light pretty much anything anywhere, as well as set up and tear down without a whole lot of fuss. It's currently running a Kickstarter campaign to raise funds to finalize manufacturing, so continue on to learn all about the RagLite.

Here's the RagLite's Kickstarter campaign video, which explains its construction, as well as its potential benefits for filmmakers, (and anyone else who needs an easy-to-set-up light).


Developed by inventor, producer, and director Chad Soderholm and engineer and gaffer Sin Cohen, the RagLite was designed to give users a simple, portable, and versatile lighting option. Though you won't be able to light everything with this thing (it's marketed as a light bank), it looks as though it'll give you the ability to light hard-to-reach areas and objects, like the inside of cars, small rooms (like bathrooms), etc. That's good news for indie filmmakers, since we don't usually have access to, say, humongous sound stages or open mansions -- it's usually our buddy's studio apartment.

Here are a few features their Kickstarter campaign lists:

  • Flexible Design
  • Waterproof
  • Lightweight and Portable
  • Virtually Indestructible
  • Non-Heat Emitting
  • Long-Lasting
  • Power Efficient
  • Module Mounting System (attach D-Rings, Magnets and daisy-chain)

The Cine version, which is geared specifically toward filmmakers, uses 3200K Tungsten or 5600K Daylight LEDs to allow for 100% color accuracy. This version also features flicker-free dimming and a rechargeable battery.  It comes in 3 sizes: 14"x24", 14"x12", and 6"x6", which will allow you to add a quick accent, light your subject's face, or even provide wide illumination to a room.

Not only can you put this thing anywhere (even underwater), you can mount things onto it. These lights aren't going to heat up, which is always a concern when working with lights, not only because of safety, but also on-set dead time waiting for bulbs to cool down.

Now, the prices for the different versions of the RagLite range from $75 to $2400. The $75 RagLite mini is built to give users a smaller lighting option if all they need is a way to add an accent light, whereas the $2400 14x24 RagLite Cine gives users 100% color accuracy, as well as a much larger lighting source. So, is it affordable? That depends on which version you're talking about. Of course, the Cine version costs a pretty penny regardless of which size you choose, however if you're looking for versatility, portability, and something comparable to a Kino Flo Diva-Lite in terms of output, then this might be a good option for you.

If you're interested, check out the RagLite campaign on Kickstarter. Scope the rewards (which are essentially pre-sales), watch the videos, and decide if they're worth your hard-earned cash. You can also go to their website to learn more about the development team, as well as read some important FAQs.

RagLite ad

What do you think of the RagLite? Do you think it provides the features indie filmmakers would find helpful? Let us know in the comments.

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