Why do many barndoors only have two triangular side flaps instead of four?
Asked 8/25/2020
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2 answers
0
I'm learning how studio barndoors work and noticed two common designs. One is a simple four-leaf set of rectangular flaps. Another has two rectangular flaps plus two flaps with triangular side pieces that help close the gaps at the corners.
At first I assumed a more advanced design would give all four leaves adjustable triangular extensions, so less light could leak through the spaces between the doors. Why isn't that standard on most barndoors? Is there a downside to having more complete corner coverage?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
6y ago
2 Answers
3
There is no mistake. I believe the shape is a compromise between flexibility and simplicity.
Having the triangles on only 2 sides gives your a good balance of options, how you can shape the light. Also, please have in mind that barndoors were used on flood lights that could get rather hot. Manipulating these while the lights were running was not a nice thing, even with heavy mittens.
Nowadays with relative cool LED lights, more elaborate shapes make sense, as you still can touch and operate these when the lights are on.
So, basically, I guess makers are so used to the traditional shape, that more elaborate ones are still quite new in design.
Originally by user88965. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user88965
6y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Your idea is reasonable—there isn’t really a “mistake.” It’s mainly a design compromise between control, complexity, and usability.
Barndoors have traditionally been used on hot continuous lights, where simple, sturdy flaps were easier and safer to handle. Adding more triangular pieces gives more precise shaping and helps reduce light leaking through the corners, but it also makes the unit more complex to build and adjust.
Using triangles on only two sides provides a practical middle ground: better control than plain rectangular leaves, without making the accessory overly fiddly. That balance of flexibility and simplicity is likely why the design became common.
Another factor is tradition. Lighting accessories often keep familiar designs for a long time, especially when they work well enough for most users. With cooler-running LED lights, more elaborate barndoor designs are becoming more practical because they’re easier to touch and adjust while in use.
So the short answer is: four fully articulated corner-closing leaves could offer more control, but many barndoors stick to simpler designs because they’re easier, safer, and historically established.
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