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Introduction to the Chimera System


 

Frequently Asked Questions

How does one pronounce CHIMERA?
The word is originally from Greek mythology and according to The American HeritageŽ Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition it is a fire-breathing she-monster usually represented as a composite of a lion, goat, and serpent. In modern terms it can mean a clever idea. Most Webster readers pronounce it "kimera", however, through the 20 plus years of existence in the lighting industry it is most frequently referred to as "shimera".

Why use a CHIMERA Lightbank?
The CHIMERA Lightbank was designed to be a portable broad, light source. A Lightbank greatly increases the size of the light. The greater the size of the light, the softer the shadows. The Lightbank delivers a natural quality of light which makes portraits, places, and things beautiful. CHIMERA offers all image makers, from home videographers to seasoned professionals, the world's finest equipment and service. CHIMERA is the industry recognized, leading manufacturer of exceptional quality Lightbanks and lighting accessories.

Some of your product names seem confusing. How do I find what I'm looking for?
For example, Daylite does not mean daylight balanced, nor does Quartz refer to tungsten only. A Lightbank is what diffuses the light. The Speed Ring is what you NEED to attach your light to a CHIMERA Lightbank. A "PLUS" bank is a term we use for Lightbanks that have a front screen that Velcros in and out. PLUS One banks come with one full diffusion front screen while the standard "PLUS" banks come with three front screens. The three screens are "full", "half", and "quarter" diffusion. Baffles go between the front screen and the light and are supplied with all Lightbanks.

Can I use a strobe in a Video PRO Bank?
Yes, Video PRO Banks use the same size Speed Rings. Possibly you might need to use the Video PRO with the ˝" longer poles.

Can I use a Video PRO Ring with a Quartz Bank?
Yes, you can if you have a set of QVP adapter rods (#4099).

How do I know what size Lightbank to use?
Generally speaking, use the largest one you can; this renders the softest light. One rule of thumb is to have the Lightbank equal to the size of the subject (i.e. A small 24x32 is perfect for a head and shoulder shot, where a medium would be preferred for group head and shoulders shot).

What is the difference between a white Super PRO Plus and a silver Super PRO Plus?
The silver is slightly more efficient in light output and has higher specular highlights than a white interior. Product shooters seem to prefer the silver while portrait photographers like the softer white interior. Also, the soft silver of a Video PRO is a nice blend of the white and silver of the strobe banks.