Kupo Grip is a technique of professional lighting design.
Technical Details
Standard Kupo Grips are made of anodized aluminum and weigh between 180-450 grams. The basic principle is based on a spring-loaded lever mechanism with hardened steel jaws that carry a non-slip rubber pad. The opening width varies depending on the model: KG003615 (10-32 mm), KG008815 (13-38 mm), and KG009315 (20-55 mm). Each grip features a 16 mm spigot (Baby Pin) or 28 mm spigot (Junior Pin) for mounting lights or accessories. The clamping jaws can be rotated 360° and locked in 90° increments.
History & Development
Kupo Industrial Co. developed the first Kupo Grips in Taiwan in 1994 as an alternative to heavy C-clamps and inflexible pipe clamps. The breakthrough came in 1998 with the introduction of the "Convi Clamp" series, which combined spring-loaded jaws with a quick-release mechanism for the first time. From 2003 onwards, the term "Kupo Grip" became established industry-wide as a generic term, similar to "Kleenex" for tissues. Today, Kupo produces over 200 different grip variants, from micro-grips for DSLRs to heavy-duty versions for 18K spotlights.
Practical Use in Film
In "Blade Runner 2049" (2017), DoP Roger Deakins extensively used Kupo Grips to attach LED panels to truss structures and create the characteristic neon look. The grips allow for quick repositioning during shooting – a standard C-clamp requires 30-45 seconds to adjust, a Kupo Grip only 3-5 seconds. Especially for handheld shots or in confined locations such as vehicle interiors, the compact dimensions prove crucial. The spring-loaded mechanism prevents loosening due to vibrations, such as those occurring with camera cars or helicopter flights.
Comparison & Alternatives
Kupo Grips differ from C-clamps by their spring-loaded quick attachment and from Cardellini Clamps by their greater material thickness tolerance. Matthews Studio Equipment offers an Italian alternative with their "Mafer Clamps," which, however, is 40% heavier. Modern competitors like SmallRig or Manfrotto copy the Kupo design but only achieve 60-70% of the original clamping force. For pipe diameters over 55 mm, classic C-clamps are still used; for weights over 15 kg, safety cables are mandatory.