Telescoping arm for light stands — allows lateral repositioning of fixtures without moving the entire stand.
Technical Details
Professional extension arms carry loads between 3 kg (Baby Pin, Ø 16 mm) and 25 kg (Junior Pin, Ø 28 mm). They are constructed from aluminum or steel tubing with wall thicknesses of 2-4 mm. Telescopic variants feature quick-release locks or rotating clamps for securing. The tilt angle can be adjusted 360° horizontally and ±90° vertically using a ball joint or multi-axis clamping mechanisms. Counterbalancing is achieved with sandbags or counterweights on the short lever arm.
History & Development
Extension arms originated in the 1940s out of the necessity to precisely position lights in confined studio sets. Mole-Richardson developed the first standardized "Boom Arm" for their C-stands in 1947. Matthews Studio Equipment perfected the telescopic system in 1965 with the "Mafer Clamp Arm." Modern carbon fiber constructions have reduced the self-weight by up to 40% since 2008.
Practical Use in Film
Roger Deakins used 2.50 m extension arms on "1917" (2019) to position LED panels outside the camera path during the one-shot sequences. In vehicle shots, they enable lighting through windows without visible stands. Typical workflow: Mount the arm on a C-stand, attach the light to the pin, balance with sandbags. Advantage: Precise control without altering the set architecture. Disadvantage: Increased risk of tipping in wind or with rapid camera movements.
Comparison & Alternatives
Compared to boom stands, extension arms offer more flexible height positioning with a smaller footprint. Magic Arms (Friction Arms) allow for more complex angles but only carry loads of 2-8 kg. Camera cranes replace extension arms for dynamic lighting movements. Menace Arms combine extension with 360° rotation for automotive shoots. For exterior shots, drone lighting rigs are increasingly replacing static arm systems.