Barndoors are adjustable metal flaps attached to the front of studio or stage lights. They control the spread of light, allowing filmmakers to shape, block, or direct light more precisely without changing the fixture itself.
Precise light control avoids spill (light hitting areas you don’t want illuminated), create sharper lighting patterns, and give you greater control over shadows and highlights. Barndoors help sculpt the scene—keeping focus on the subject while maintaining shadows where needed.
Barndoors are ideal for spotlighting or isolating subjects. They’re used when lighting subjects in tight or controlled environments or on set to direct light away from the camera lens or background areas you want to keep dark.
Shape light precisely – Use barndoors to control where light falls, avoiding unnecessary spill on backgrounds or the camera lens.
Combine with diffusion – Pair barndoors with softboxes or gels for controlled yet natural lighting.
Check shadow edges – Adjust flap angles to create sharp or soft shadow lines depending on the scene’s needs.