Matte box with a side-swinging filter stage that allows quick lens changes without removing filters.
Technical Details
Standard swing-away matte boxes feature two to four 4x4" or 4x5.65" filter trays with 15mm rod guides and a height of 180-220mm. The swing-away mechanism operates with a spring force of 12-15 Nm and automatically locks in the 90° position. Connection is made via 15mm or 19mm support rods with an adjustable spacing of 60-104mm. High-quality models like the ARRI LMB-25 or Tilta Mirage additionally offer adjustable side flags (French Flags) and an integrated doughnut ring for variable lens diameters from 77-114mm.
Variants differ mainly in the number of filters (2-stage, 3-stage, 4-stage) and the mounting system (clamp-on vs. rod-mounted). Lightweight carbon versions weigh 800-1200g, while robust aluminum versions reach 1500-2200g.
History & Development
Panavision developed the first swing-away matte box in 1975 for their PSR cameras to save time during frequent lens changes. Arriflex introduced the first universal system in 1983 with the LMB-15, which could be used independently of the camera. The breakthrough came in 1991 with the Chrosziel Compendium 450, which achieved a swing time of 2 seconds for the first time.
Modern developments focus on quick-release mechanisms and modular expandability. Since 2018, manufacturers like Wooden Camera have been offering integrated wireless follow-focus mounts and magnetic filter exchange systems.
Practical Use in Film
In action films like "Mad Max: Fury Road" (2015), the swing-away system enabled cinematographer John Seale to make quick lens changes between takes without losing filters. Documentary filmmakers appreciate the flexibility during spontaneous lighting changes – an ND 0.9 filter remains installed while the lens is changed.
The typical workflow: the camera assistant releases the lock, swings the matte box away, changes the lens, swings it back, and locks it. Total time: 15-20 seconds instead of 45-60 seconds with conventional systems. The disadvantage is the additional weight and mechanical complexity during handheld work.
Comparison & Alternatives
Compared to fixed matte boxes, the swing-away system saves 60-70% of the change time but costs 30-50% more. Clamp-on filters directly on the lens are lighter but offer less sun protection and no flag capability.
Modern alternatives include magnetic quick-change systems like the PolarPro BaseCase or ARRI's Signature Prime integrated filters. These combine the speed of the swing-away principle with the lower weight of clamp-on solutions but do not achieve the stability and light protection of classic matte boxes.