Optical focusing system projecting gobo patterns and shapes from Aputure LED sources for creative light shaping.
Technical Details
The system consists of a 6-inch reflector, a focusable lens, and a gobo slot for 86mm B-size gobos. The internal optics utilize a two-stage condenser lens, ensuring uniform illumination without hotspots. Three versions are available: for 120d (28,000 Lux/1m), 300d (75,000 Lux/1m), and 600d (150,000 Lux/1m). The focus range can be continuously adjusted between spot and flood positions, with the sharpness of the gobo projection being adapted accordingly.
History & Development
Aputure introduced the Spotlight Mount in 2018 in response to the growing demand for LED-based spot solutions. The Chinese company recognized that traditional tungsten spots needed to be replaced by LED alternatives without compromising light quality. Compatibility with the 600d followed in 2020, and the revised version 2.0, with improved thermodynamics and a faster focus mechanism, was released in 2021.
Practical Use in Film
The Spotlight Mount is suitable for hard key lights, gobo projections, and background separation. In "The Mandalorian" (2019), the DoPs used the 300d with Spotlight Mount for precise facial modeling in front of LED volumes. A typical workflow involves: mounting the unit on a C-stand, inserting a gobo, adjusting the focus for desired sharpness, and controlling the dimmer via the Sidus Link app. Advantages include no heat generation like with tungsten spots and precise dimming without color temperature shifts. Disadvantages include limited light output compared to HMIs of the same size.
Comparison & Alternatives
It directly competes with the Prolycht Orion 300 FS and the Godox SA-17. Unlike pure Fresnel spots, the Aputure mount offers gobo functionality. Classic Dedolight systems achieve sharper shadows but are less powerful. A modern alternative is the Aputure Nova P300c, a panel-based solution with similar light output but without spot characteristics. For budget productions, it replaces 650W tungsten spots, while for high-end productions, it complements HMI systems for special effects.