Last Updated 3 months ago
Definition
A Double is a net or scrim used in film lighting that reduces light by approximately one full stop. It is placed in front of a light source to lower intensity without changing color temperature or significantly altering the quality of the light.
Doubles are part of the standard scrim system used on set and are a fast, predictable way to control exposure when dimming the fixture or moving it isn’t practical.
Purpose of a Double
The purpose of a double is exposure control with consistency.
Doubles are used to:
- Reduce light output by a known, repeatable amount
- Balance multiple fixtures in a setup
- Fine-tune key-to-fill or key-to-back ratios
- Control exposure without re-rigging
- Maintain color accuracy
When you need exactly one stop less light, a double is the cleanest solution.
How a Double Net Is Used
In Front of Fixtures
Doubles are commonly:
- Dropped into the scrim slot of open-face fixtures
- Placed in front of PARs or Fresnels
- Used in combination with singles or half-scrims
- Swapped quickly between takes
Because scrims are passive, they do not introduce flicker or electronic artifacts.
Types of Doubles
- Double Scrim – Circular wire mesh for Fresnels
- Double Net – Fabric-based net on a frame
- Double Cut – Half scrim used to reduce part of the beam
Wire scrims reduce intensity evenly across the beam, while nets can also subtly soften light depending on distance.
Who Uses Doubles
- Gaffers: Call for exposure adjustments
- Electricians: Insert and remove scrims
- Grips
- Cinematographers: Specify lighting ratios and stops
Scrims are primarily handled by the electric department.
When to Use a Double
A double is the right choice when:
- A light is exactly one stop too hot
- Dimming would affect color temperature
- Moving the light would break the setup
- Speed and repeatability matter
If you’re guessing with dimmers when a double would do the job, you’re overcomplicating it.
Why Doubles Matter
Doubles represent disciplined lighting practice. They allow crews to work numerically and intentionally, not by feel alone.
Because they provide a known reduction, doubles help maintain consistency across scenes, days, and units. They’re also faster and more reliable than electronic solutions in many situations.
Knowing when to reach for a double—and not touch the dimmer—is basic lighting literacy.
Related Terms
- Single – Scrim that reduces light by ½ stop
- Scrim – Wire mesh used to reduce light
- Net – Fabric-based light-reduction material
- Exposure – Amount of light hitting the sensor