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Lighting · Equipment

Creamsource

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LED manufacturer known for precise color control and high CRI. RGBWW technology lets you dial in any color temperature on set without gels. Industry standard for controlled lighting rigs.

Technical Details

The Creamsource series includes models ranging from 1x1 foot to 4x2 feet in size, with power outputs between 40 and 400 watts. The flagship Vortex8 achieves 15,000 lux at a distance of one meter and weighs 8.5 kg. All models operate with DMX-512 protocol and feature local controls with 0.1% precise dimming. The patented phosphor technology combines red, green, blue, and amber LEDs (RGBA) with additional mint and amber chips for precise color mixing. The panels achieve a lifespan of 50,000 hours with constant light output.

History & Development

Creamsource was founded in 2012 by Belgian engineer Filip Vandueren, who previously worked at Kino Flo. The first model, Mini, debuted at NAB in 2013 and quickly established itself in European film productions. In 2016, the Vortex series followed with improved color accuracy, and in 2019, the Sky range was added for daylight applications. In 2021, Outsight acquired the company and integrated it into its portfolio of professional broadcast brands.

Practical Use in Film

Creamsource panels have been used in productions such as "The Crown" (Netflix) for uniform interior lighting and "Dunkirk" for mobile daylight supplementation. Cinematographers appreciate the soft, low-shadow illumination for close-ups and the ability to seamlessly link multiple panels. The low heat emission allows for longer takes without compromising actor comfort. In studio environments, they serve as key light or fill light.

Comparison & Alternatives

Creamsource competes directly with Arri SkyPanel, Kino Flo Celeb, and Litepanels Gemini. While SkyPanel offers higher light output, Creamsource excels with its more compact design and precise color rendering. Compared to traditional HMI lights, LED panels eliminate flicker issues at high frame rates and reduce energy consumption by 70%. For budget productions, ARRI Orbiter or Aputure Nova represent more cost-effective alternatives, but do not achieve the color precision of Creamsource models.

Current News

With the Vortex 2, Creamsource presents a new generation of its 2x2ft RGBWW panels, achieving a light output of 100,000 lux. The advanced gel emulation algorithms precisely mimic tungsten and halogen light, expanding creative possibilities for cinematographers. A battery-powered variant makes the panel usable for mobile productions without a power connection.

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