Flexible LED panel systems for custom light shapes — modular ribbon lights for creative lighting design and set integration.
Technical Details
Each base module delivers 150 watts with an output of 18,000 lumens and weighs 2.8 kg. The LED chips are arranged in a 6x6 grid, with each chip individually controllable. The system operates at 48V DC voltage and features DMX-512 control with 16-bit resolution per channel. Dimming is stepless from 0-100% without color shift, and the beam angle is 120° with optional softboxes for 60° or 30°. Four variants are available: Standard (5600K), Tungsten (3200K), RGBW (variable color temperature 2700K-6500K), and High-Output (220 watts per module).
History & Development
Source Four developed the first Sourcemaker in 2018 in response to the limitations of conventional HMI lights for exterior shots. The inspiration came from DoP Rachel Morrison, who needed a consistent daylight source without flicker for "Black Panther." The RGBW version followed in 2020, and the High-Output variant in 2022 with improved heat dissipation through a liquid-cooling system. Netflix standardized Sourcemaker arrays for their original productions in 2021, which helped the system achieve widespread adoption.
Practical Use in Film
For "Dune" (2021), Greig Fraser used 16-panel arrays as a sunlight imitation in the desert scenes, combined with practical mirrors for added hardness. "The Batman" (2022) utilized RGBW Sourcemakers for the iconic red lighting effects in the nightclub sequences. The system is particularly suitable for green screen work as it provides flicker-free light without infrared content. Typical workflow: 4-panel setup for single portraits, 9-panel arrays for groups, 16+ panels for wide shots. Disadvantages include the high weight of larger arrays and power distribution for battery operation.
Comparison & Alternatives
Unlike ARRI's SkyPanels, the Sourcemaker offers true modularity without a central control unit. Compared to Aputure Nova panels, it scores with higher individual panel output but is more expensive. LiteGear LiteTiles remain more flexible due to bendability but do not achieve the same light output. For budget productions, Godox panels with 60% of the luminous flux are an alternative. For exterior shots with ample daylight, the Sourcemaker remains unrivaled; for interiors, less expensive systems are often sufficient.