Brick Weights (ghetto Sandbags)
by artcfartc in Craft > Photography
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Brick Weights (ghetto Sandbags)
I'm a poor photographer, and keeping my lights from falling over on a shoot is very important. But, I didn't want to spend $30 a sandbag to do what any good heavy object could do. I've seen people use ancient window weights, and all manner of other things to keep their stand from falling over, but in my opinion my brick weights are by far the easiest and cheapest solution. They also have the advantage of being much more water resistant than sandbags, if you happen to have the misfortune of having to shoot outdoors on a humid or, God forbid, rainy day.
What You Need.
-2 Bricks with holes in them
-about 3 and half feet of rope (I prefer the soft poly kind that can be melted)
-Duct tape (colorful if you have it, Gaff tape if you're really fancy)
-A knife
-A lighter
-about 3 and half feet of rope (I prefer the soft poly kind that can be melted)
-Duct tape (colorful if you have it, Gaff tape if you're really fancy)
-A knife
-A lighter
Ready Your Bricks
Starting with clean, dry bricks, begin by wrapping each brick with Duct Tape. Be sure that you cover all corners and the entire brick with at least two layers. Tape is obviously not needed, but it will prevent you from scratching your clients floors and making them angry with your ghettoness.
Cut Holes for Rope
After wrapping both bricks, feel around for the holes under the duct tape and cut them with your knife. A simple X will do.
Cut the Rope
Next cut about 3 and half feet of poly rope. You should burn the ends of the rope to keep it from unraveling. Just graze it with a lighter, don't light it. It may be a good idea to have a cup of water to dip the end of the rope in afterward so it cools quickly. The water could also be useful if you accidentally light the rope.
After you've cut and melted the tips of the rope string it through one brick and then the other, and tie it under one of the bricks.
Once tied, go over the knot with the lighter briefly to melt the knot together so it will not come loose.
After you've cut and melted the tips of the rope string it through one brick and then the other, and tie it under one of the bricks.
Once tied, go over the knot with the lighter briefly to melt the knot together so it will not come loose.
You're Done.
Congratulations, you now have a brick weight that is ready to use. Repeat as needed. I should also warn you not hang these high as they hurt a lot more than sandbags when you hit your head on them. I recommend using these only at the base of your sands.