What Is A Matte Box, And Do You Need One?

“In photography and videography, a matte box is a device attached to the end of a lens to prevent light leakage.”

If you’re new to the world of photography, videography, or cinematography, you’ve likely come across this definition while researching essential gear, but before diving into the world of matte boxes, it’s worth understanding the basics of this indispensable piece of equipment. Matte boxes come in a wide range of sizes and configurations, from small and simple to large and complex. Knowing the variations can help you choose the right one for your needs.

Why Consider A Matte Box?

Modern cameras range from DSLRs and mirrorless cameras to digital cinema cameras and even action cameras. The lens you pair with your camera also plays a critical role in determining the appropriate matte box.

Lens diameter, in particular, is a key factor when selecting a matte box. Consumer lenses typically range from 37mm to 72mm, while professional lenses often start at 77mm and go up to 150mm or more. The right matte box ensures compatibility with your lens and enhances your shooting capabilities.

Common Camera and Lens Combinations with Matte Boxes

Here’s a breakdown of typical camera-lens setups and the recommended matte box configuration for each:

1. Consumer DSLR cameras with lenses

• Most consumer DSLRs come with a lens hood rather than a matte box. These hoods typically match the filter thread size of the lens.
• For higher-end DSLRs, a simple matte box with a single French flag and support for ring filters can elevate your setup and give it a more professional edge.

   

2. Mirrorless cameras with lenses

• Mirrorless cameras offer versatility, as they can use both consumer and professional lenses.
• The lens hood is commonly used for these setups.
• If it goes with more professional lenses, then matte boxes for these setups are often compact and designed to hold at least one filter, with fewer choices for 4×4 and 4×5.65 filters and more designed for ring filters. Some manufacturers provide ring adaptors for matte boxes, ensuring compatibility with varying lens diameters.

             

3. Entry-level Digital cinema cameras with lenses

• Examples include Blackmagic Cinema Camera 6K, Sony FX6, etc.. These setups often feature professional lenses with diameters starting at 77mm or more.
• Matte boxes designed for these cameras typically support multiple filter stages and can be mounted via clip-on lens adaptors or rod systems.

         

4. Professional digital cinema cameras with lenses

• Examples include Arri digital cinema cameras and RED digital cinema cameras. These are paired with high-end lenses from classical brands like Zeiss, Cooke, Arri, Angénieux, and more or newer manufacturers such as DZOfilm, Rokinon, etc.
• Matte boxes for these setups are more advanced, supporting at least two filter stages and accommodating large filter sizes like 4×4，4×5.65 or 6.6×6.6. They can be mounted via clip-on systems or 15//19mm rod supports.

   

When shooting with stabilizers like Steadicam or Easyrig, a compact clip-on matte box is an excellent option. These are lightweight yet professional, supporting lenses with diameters up to 156mm. For example, Chewa LMB15 & LMB26 matte box. 

5. Film Cameras

• Classic film cameras, such as the Arriflex series or Panavision cameras, are now rarely used in modern filmmaking, but some directors still do, perhaps they prefer the traditional way to keep the filmic feeling.
• Matte boxes like the ARRI MB14 are built for these setups, designed to be mounted on 19mm rods. While these heavy-duty matte boxes are gradually disappearing from the market, they are treasures for equipment enthusiasts interested in the history of the film industry.

                               

Final Thoughts

Matte boxes are more than just a tool to block light - they are integral to achieving professional-quality footage. Whether you’re using a DSLR, mirrorless, or cinema camera, selecting the right matte box can elevate your work.

For filmmakers working on stabilizers or looking to reduce the weight of their rigs, compact clip-on matte boxes like the Chewa LMB15 and the ChewaLMB26 are excellent choices.

Ready to explore matte boxes and other professional gear? Check out our collection at chewafilmvideo.com and elevate your next production!