What is a Camera Matte Box?

A camera matte box, like its name suggests, is a special kind of camera or lens additional piece designed for mirrorless cameras to prevent sunlight or other light from causing glare and flare, thus viewing a real-time image on the screen. Some of the VND matte box kits can even help balance exposure by changing external luminous flux for a given DOF. In photography and videography, a camera matte box plays a vital role in making the shooting process smoother. A usual matte box kit will include components such as:

1. Matte box

It's the primary component of this accessory.

2. Top/bottom flags

These are also commonly known as French flags or flaps.

3. Additional mattes

These are normally included at the front and back of the box.

4. Side flags

These are also referred to as the flaps and accumulatively the four flaps can be called barn doors as well.

5. Filter tray holders

Their purpose is to hold the thing situated next to them.

6. Filter trays

These are responsible for keeping the rectangular filters in place.

7. Bracket

The bracket is what makes the camera matte box flexible (by allowing it to open). There is also a rod bracket for support.

8. Filter frame

For some of the VND matte box kits, such as SmallRig Multifunctional Modular Matte Box (Φ95mm) VND Kit 3645, filter frames are also included in these packages for maximum light transmission and accurate color rendition.

The Purpose of a Camera Matte Box

After getting to know so many separate parts, you might be curious about the function, purpose and feature of a camera matte box kit. To put it simply, a matte box kit is designed to achieve 3 targets:

1. Glare and flare prevention

Light is the soul of a photo. However, if the light is too strong, too direct or generally, inappropriate, it can also ruin the picture you take. So, just like what we mentioned previously, a matte box’s main function is to prevent sunlight or other light from causing glare and flare, reduce light reflection, and view real-time images on the screen.

2. Light control and effect creation

Also, some camera matte box kits are capable of providing their users with more circular filters like VND, GND, and CPL, along with threaded adapter rings. All of these things will vastly control the light and create the desired effect, thus improving the quality of imagery captured.

3. Multiple scenes usage

A matte box, when connected with other accessories such as a handle and hand grip, supports various applications in multiple scenes. That's why another important feature of the matte box is that it is very easy to install, and one doesn't have to worry about leaving any fingerprints while installing it. This is made possible because of the filter frame, including an aluminum alloy frame and anti-off design.

SmallRig Multifunctional Modular Matte Box (Φ95mm) Basic Kit 3556

When it comes to choosing a basic matte box kit, SmallRig Multifunctional Modular Matte Box (Φ95mm) Basic Kit 3556 will be a great choice. This SmallRig matte box has a quick-release design, can be attached in seconds and supports fast filter swaps. To secure the attachment, there is even a built-in safety lock.

It is compatible with many wide-angle lenses and also includes five threaded adapter rings for a standard DSLR.

SmallRig Multifunctional Modular Matte Box (Φ114mm) Basic Kit 3641

SmallRig Multifunctional Modular Matte Box (Φ114mm) Basic Kit 3641 is similar in function to the previous model. It offers a quick-release design, attaches in seconds, and supports fast filter swaps, with a built-in safety lock that ensures quick filter attachment and detachment alike.

SmallRig Multifunctional Modular Matte Box (Φ95mm) VND Kit 3645

If it is a VND kit you are looking for, you should never miss SmallRig Multifunctional Modular Matte Box (Φ95mm) VND Kit 3645, which is unlike any other on the list as it has a professional high-definition filter set that sets it apart. The German optical glass with 18 layers of coating included in this camera matte box kit provides maximum light transmission and color rendition. Its high-definition filter set and other usual but high-quality features make it a desirable item.

Why SmallRig?

SmallRig photography accessories are a must for any professional or up-and-coming photographer who wants to add charm to their work. SmallRig has been in the service of providing top-notch photography equipment for decades now and their products are synonymous with reliability and quality.