A term from film lighting and grip.
Definition
A 5-in-1 Reflector is a versatile and compact lighting tool consisting of a foldable, round or oval frame with various surfaces. The system typically includes a removable cover with four different reflective surfaces plus a translucent diffuser surface. The standard configuration offers: White (soft, neutral fill light), Silver (hard, high-contrast light), Gold (warm tint), Black (shading/negative fill), and Translucent (diffusion).
The reflector works on the principle of light redirection and modification through reflection or diffusion of existing light sources. Due to its clever design with interchangeable covers, it combines the functions of several individual reflectors in a single, portable system.
Practical Application
On a film set, the 5-in-1 Reflector is used for precise light control in close-ups and portraits. The white side is ideal for natural-looking shadow fill (Fill Light), while the silver surface creates stronger accents. The gold side produces warm, sunny lighting moods, especially effective in outdoor shots. The black side functions as a gobo or flag for targeted shading of unwanted light sources. The translucent surface converts hard light into soft, diffused light.
Technical Details
Standard 5-in-1 reflectors are available in sizes ranging from 60cm to 150cm in diameter. They can be folded to about one-third of their original size using spring steel. The weight ranges from 300g to 1.5kg depending on the size.