ARRI Side Mattes on Set: What They Do and When to Rent Them
By Matphoto | Published: 2026-11-04
Category: Product Reviews
Learn how ARRI side mattes control lens flare on set, when to rent them, and how they compare to flags. Practical advice for matte box users.
Quick answer
Rent ARRI side mattes when you need precise, adjustable flare control that flags can't provide, especially with wide lenses or in tight spaces. They attach directly to your ARRI matte box and block light from the sides without the bulk of traditional flags.
Why side mattes beat flags in some situations
Flags are versatile, but they require stands, arms, and floor space. Side mattes mount on the matte box itself, so they move with the camera and stay aligned with the lens. That makes them ideal for handheld, gimbal, or car-mounted shots where a flag would be impractical.
They also provide more consistent shading because they are fixed relative to the lens. You can adjust them vertically or horizontally to fine-tune the cut, but they won't drift if someone bumps a stand.
When side mattes are not the right tool
If you need to shape light from a distance or create a hard shadow across the frame, a flag or cutter is more effective. Side mattes only control light entering from the sides of the matte box, so they won't help with top light or background flare.
Also, side mattes add width to your rig. On a crowded set or in a tight location, they can get in the way. Check your camera's footprint before committing.
Diagnose your flare problem
- Symptom: Unwanted glare or haze from the side: Likely cause: Light is hitting the front element from the side, often with wide-angle lenses. Corrective action: Mount ARRI side mattes on your matte box and adjust them to block the source. If adjusting the mattes doesn't remove the glare, the light may be coming from above or behind—consider a top flag or repositioning.
- Symptom: Flags are impractical due to space or movement: Likely cause: You're shooting handheld, on a gimbal, or in a tight location where stands and arms won't fit. Corrective action: Use side mattes for on-camera shading that moves with the lens. Side mattes won't help if the flare source is not lateral; assess the light direction first.
- Symptom: Flare persists despite side mattes: Likely cause: The light is coming from the top, bottom, or directly into the lens. Corrective action: Add a top flag or use a lens hood; side mattes only address lateral light. Stop using side mattes alone if the flare is not lateral—choose a different modifier.
Product facts
- ARRI SIDE MATTES: ARRI SIDE MATTES are side mattes intended for use with an ARRI matte box. They are a direct accessory for ARRI matte boxes, ensuring compatibility and consistent shading without extra rigging.
ARRI SIDE MATTES
