Paul Ferrara wrote:
If it's for model pics, all you need is a roll of Arctic White paper ($36) and a couple of lights.

How do you know what he needs?  Seamless background paper can serve the same purpose as a cyclorama in some cases but not all.  It is not the same thing.  The OP asked about portable cycloramas. 

Hard walled cycloramas can be painted different colors and textures and they can accomodate models sitting or standing on the curve.  A free-standing cyc can be used over carpenting when seamless will likely tear.  Seamless comes in three roll widths whereas cycs can be made to fit the dimensions of a studio.  Also compound or cove cycloramas can be made with corners and ceilings.

I have looked into cyclorama kits both free-standing (the more portable kind) and wall installation.  Molded plastic sections and their supports are expensive.  I believe that the lowest cost free-standing cyc was quoted at over $1800 for a 12 ft. width.  I can't find the company or quote readily, but I remember it seeming to be worth attempting to build it myself.  I was not considering building a freestanding unit myself however. 

Dan Howell

Paul Ferrara wrote:
Well, I don't know what he needs.  See the "if's" in my message?  And I looked at his port; it's obvious that he's just starting out.

Paul

Well, actually you wrote 'if it is for model pics'.  There are numerous applications in MODEL photogrpahy that seamless paper and cycloramas differ.  I did see the 'ifs' and responded to the post with them in mind.  The OP asked about one thing and you suggested another when the question was fairly straight-forward. 

If he had asked about shooting models shiloetted against a white background, your answer would have been appropriate.  Yet that wasn't even near the question he asked.  Classy act on your part to ignor the heart of his question and then go on to insult his photography.  Which part of your responses was supposed to be helpful?

Steinberg Photo wrote:
I'm doing some research right now. It would be primarily for models, if at all. My thought was a portable unit might be better when working in a small studio space (unit could be moved out of the way when not in use).

In addition to models alone, it might be used for models w/larger props, such as a motorcycle.

Thanks for replying.  (See Dan, I was right!)  Next question, are you prepared to spend the $1800 or so Dan says it will cost?  And why are you thinking cyclos vs white seamless?  I'm just trying to help you.  Do you have strobes now?

To Brooklyn, mine never seems to rip, but it does get dirty and puncture holes in it from models' high heels.  When that happens I just cut off the dirty part.

Paul

Paul Ferrara wrote:
Thanks for replying.  (See Dan, I was right!)  Paul

Again, where did he say he wanted to shoot them against white?  Why do you think that cycloramas are only used for white?  Have you tried to paint a smooth gradiant on a paper roll?  Can you imagine a shot w/ a motorcycle or two might be wider than a 12 ft. roll of seamless?  I'm sorry if your conception of cyclorama is so limited, but there are a lot of aspects that differentiate seamless paper and cyclorama.  Study up before you declare yourself a victor.

Dan Howell wrote:

Again, where did he say he wanted to shoot them against white?  Why do you think that cycloramas are only used for white?  Have you tried to paint a smooth gradiant on a paper roll?  Can you imagine a shot w/ a motorcycle or two might be wider than a 12 ft. roll of seamless?  I'm sorry if your conception of cyclorama is so limited, but there are a lot of aspects that differentiate seamless paper and cyclorama.  Study up before you declare yourself a victor.

Dan's right, if you never used a cyc I can see why you would rather uses seamless.  I have shot in studios that had them and I can tell you they do make life REAL easy.  They are very versatile, need a different color just get out a can of paint and roller, have a few scuff marks just paint over them. 

If I had the storage space I would get one of there portable setups for my studio it sure beats having to drag out a 12 foot roll of seamless.

Paul Ferrara wrote:
The point is you don't have one, Dan doesn't have one, no one I know has one.

Why white?  Well they come in white.  Yes, I know you can paint them but I don't think that's what he was planning to do.  And I don't think he's planning to spend $1800 for one, although he'll have to reply to my question to know for sure.  I think he just wants a white background for models.

Paul

This is all still research. The Procyc folks strongly recommend painting their system. I've seen and used cyc and personally liked the result vs a white paper background. The Procyc system is expensive. How much would we spend? - No idea. That is why we are doing the research.

Dan Howell wrote:

How do you know what he needs?  Seamless background paper can serve the same purpose as a cyclorama in some cases but not all.  It is not the same thing.  The OP asked about portable cycloramas. 

Hard walled cycloramas can be painted different colors and textures and they can accomodate models sitting or standing on the curve.  A free-standing cyc can be used over carpenting when seamless will likely tear.  Seamless comes in three roll widths whereas cycs can be made to fit the dimensions of a studio.  Also compound or cove cycloramas can be made with corners and ceilings.

I have looked into cyclorama kits both free-standing (the more portable kind) and wall installation.  Molded plastic sections and their supports are expensive.  I believe that the lowest cost free-standing cyc was quoted at over $1800 for a 12 ft. width.  I can't find the company or quote readily, but I remember it seeming to be worth attempting to build it myself.  I was not considering building a freestanding unit myself however. 

Dan Howell

ditto

Paul Ferrara wrote:
The point is you don't have one, Dan doesn't have one, no one I know has one.

Why white?  Well they come in white.  Yes, I know you can paint them but I don't think that's what he was planning to do.  And I don't think he's planning to spend $1800 for one, although he'll have to reply to my question to know for sure.  I think he just wants a white background for models.

Paul

I am deeply sorry that you can't see the abundant points that I've been trying to make.  It appears your lack of experience with the subject matter has limited your imagination.  Why did you even respond in the first place?  You apparently don't know anything about cycloramas.  And you don't know anything about the uses the OP is interested in getting out of one. 

You bring up the fact that I do not currently have one.  That does not mean however that: a) I am not planning on building a permanent one in my studio (which, in fact, I am) or b) I have not shot on cycloramas several times in the past (I have).

I have seen cycloramas in studios that are only 6 ft. wide. that were used for recurring portraits at an corporate in-house studio.  The lack of expendable materials (ie. seamless paper) paid for the installation many times over the life of the cyc.  Still others are used for chroma-key work in video or special-effects.

My interest in a cyclorama is the fact that I have frequently run out of width on a 12 ft. roll of seamless when doing larger shots or multiple models.  I have heard of 16ft. rolls of seamless but they are prohibitively expensive and require truck shipment and are difficult to get into my 5th fl. studio. Furthermore, seamless paper is a very limited pallet.  12ft rolls are an even smaller range.  I am fortunate to have a sizeable studio that can afford the space to devote to a cyclorama.  If I choose to build it myself, something I enjoy doing, the cost of the construction would be recoved inside of a year.

If it isn't clear by now, I'll bring it down to your level.  There are several important differences between seamless and cycloramas.  There are a myriad of uses for cycloramas other than white shiloette.  I have worked on both.  I have researched cycloramas.  I kinda know what I'm talking about concerning this topic.  If this were another topic like an in-ceiling rail system for lighting or a scaffolding system for over-head shots I wouldn't have responded because I have no experience, research or interest in them. 

Why you have held onto this topic with so little useful information at your disposal is beyond me.

Dan Howell wrote:
...If this were another topic like an in-ceiling rail system for lighting or a scaffolding system...

I have a FOBA 10x10 gliding rail grid with (2) scissors for sale!  It's awesome, and provides the ultimate in directional lighting and keeps all the cords off the floor...It was from a former studio I owned.  I just don't have a place to hang it as I rent studios throughout LA because the cost to maintain a studio here is just too damn high!

But if I were to re-invest in studio space, a cyc would be at the top of the list.  That, and ground floor level with a garage door...

Paul Ferrara wrote:
And I looked at his port; it's obvious that he's just starting out.

...ouch.  way to be a douche.


Rocksteady,
Danno~

Dan Howell wrote:

How do you know what he needs?  Seamless background paper can serve the same purpose as a cyclorama in some cases but not all.  It is not the same thing.  The OP asked about portable cycloramas. 

Hard walled cycloramas can be painted different colors and textures and they can accomodate models sitting or standing on the curve.  A free-standing cyc can be used over carpenting when seamless will likely tear.  Seamless comes in three roll widths whereas cycs can be made to fit the dimensions of a studio.  Also compound or cove cycloramas can be made with corners and ceilings.

I have looked into cyclorama kits both free-standing (the more portable kind) and wall installation.  Molded plastic sections and their supports are expensive.  I believe that the lowest cost free-standing cyc was quoted at over $1800 for a 12 ft. width.  I can't find the company or quote readily, but I remember it seeming to be worth attempting to build it myself.  I was not considering building a freestanding unit myself however. 

Dan Howell

And don't forget that you'll have to pay an assistant/s to lug the damned thing around!

ImageGenic wrote:
I too was looking at purchasing a cyc for a studio.

As to these "portable" cycs, I don't know what the definition is with regards to portability, or transport...  and ease of setting up on location, and the time it's ready to shoot due to having to fill in the seams, etc....

As an alternative to seamless paper, I have decided that a roll of vinyl flooring would work in the interim, and much like a cyc, it too can be painted. At least the reverse side  .  It's a bit heavy and would need more than your typical background support, even c-stands.... and some plywood underfloor would be needed of course if over carpeting, or an uneven concrete floor to prevent textures from telegraphing through the vinyl, but a solid non-textured vinyl floor achieves the same effect as paper, only it much more durable, AND has that glossy look like plexiglass at the floor.... If reflections are a problem, the upper part can be de-glossed....

In a way, vinyl flooring would act as a portable cyc, you just don't have that corner cove.

thanks for the tip on using vinyl. great idea!

S_Felix Photo wrote:
Hey  man you don't have to use paper nor floor vinyl, instead get a background made for photography made out of Vinyl..... I bought mine here:



http://cgi.ebay.com/WHITE-VINYL-BACKGRO … 286.c0.m14

Saul, the link does not work.  How has the background working for you?

S_Felix Photo wrote:
Hey  man you don't have to use paper nor floor vinyl, instead get a background made for photography made out of Vinyl..... I bought mine here:



http://cgi.ebay.com/WHITE-VINYL-BACKGRO … 286.c0.m14

Have you had good experience with these? Mine just arrived and they have accordion like lines all through the roll when hung.

GPS Studio Services wrote:



...........This is actually a good topic and I would love to see it get back on track.  I am wondering if anyone here has actually owned or used a portable unit?  I am familiar with several models which are available, but I don't know anyone that owns one.

Can you list those Portable Cyclorama models that you are aware of??? I am sure it would be helpful to tread participants and the OP since he is asking for such knowledge so to add to his research for consideration.

BodyIndustry wrote:
Can you list those Portable Cyclorama models that you are aware of??? I am sure it would be helpful to tread participants and the OP since he is asking for such knowledge so to add to his research for consideration.

A few things
-first, the thread is from 2005
-the OP linked a company that lists a 'portable cyclorama' yet it was only a table-top size system for shooting still-lives
-I am not aware of any truly portable corner-cove cyclorama products.
-If we are going to recycle old threads, why not rehash the inflatable garbage bag studio idea that one member was pushing as revolutionary. It could actually be considered a portable cyclorama -- albeit a horribly bad idea...

Dan Howell wrote:
why not rehash the inflatable garbage bag studio idea that one member was pushing as revolutionary. It could actually be considered a portable cyclorama -- albeit a horribly bad idea...

LOL I remember this thread/thing, thanks for the chuckle

Dan Howell wrote:
A few things
-first, the thread is from 2005
-the OP linked a company that lists a 'portable cyclorama' yet it was only a table-top size system for shooting still-lives
-I am not aware of any truly portable corner-cove cyclorama products.
-If we are going to recycle old threads, why not rehash the inflatable garbage bag studio idea that one member was pushing as revolutionary. It could actually be considered a portable cyclorama -- albeit a horribly bad idea...

First I did not recycle this thread.  If your keen eye could read it was Jesi B Photography and GPS Studio Services that are rehashing as you call it on the 02/26/14.  Read properly, contribute, or don't say anything at all. Use your power for good, not to be quick criticize or put people down.

Also I was commenting to GPS Studio Services so I have not idea why you felt the need to quote and address me.

Dan Howell wrote:
A few things
-first, the thread is from 2005
-the OP linked a company that lists a 'portable cyclorama' yet it was only a table-top size system for shooting still-lives
-I am not aware of any truly portable corner-cove cyclorama products.
-If we are going to recycle old threads, why not rehash the inflatable garbage bag studio idea that one member was pushing as revolutionary. It could actually be considered a portable cyclorama -- albeit a horribly bad idea...

BodyIndustry wrote:
First I did not recycle this thread.  If your keen eye could read it was Jesi B Photography and GPS Studio Services that are rehashing as you call it on the 02/26/14.  Read properly, contribute, or don't say anything at all. Use your power for good, not to be quick criticize or put people down.

Also I was commenting to GPS Studio Services so I have not idea why you felt the need to quote and address me.

Actually, I didn't refresh anything.    I replied to the post before me not noticing that it is such an old thread.   To "bring it back to life," one has to dig through old threads an then bump it.

That having been said, while it isn't always a great thing to bump old threads, people are talking about it here now.  If people want to discuss it, We should probably stay on track with the topic.   That is really all that matters.

BodyIndustry wrote:
Read properly, contribute, or don't say anything at all. Use your power for good, not to be quick criticize or put people down.

A few more things:
-nothing I said was necessarily a criticism
-not once did I say that you recycled the thread
-I did point out 2 salient points to the specific question you asked.
-you DON'T get to choose how I participate in an open forum, or did you misunderstand the OPEN part?

GPS Studio Services wrote:
If people want to discuss it, We should probably stay on track with the topic.   That is really all that matters.

I'd like to discuss it and have been looking into them and have found that procyc does make a portable cyc (at least now as of 2014), it's called the System 4QS and can be found here: http://www.procyc.com/products/system-4 … -inch-cove
and comes with a wheel assembly; which, in their words: "is not included and needs to be asked for specifically when requesting a quote."
They also state that the best uses for it are:

"- Very effective for television and film studios, or as a portable news set for 1-6 people
- Works well for straight wall cycs
- Ideal for virtual set backgrounds that need the added element of portability
- Any situation requiring quick and/or frequent assembly and disassembly"

Their assembly instructions can be found here: http://www.procyc.com/sites/default/fil … 013%29.pdf

and FAQ here: http://www.procyc.com/faq
which among other things, states that their systems can be used outdoors, on location and with proper treatment, even underwater; however, i'm not sure what "proper treatment" is and whether it is meant in a way such as 'general care and looking after' or something perhaps more like chemical waterproofing et cetera

But I've only just begun looking into this and so far have not got information on prices or alternatives to the 4QS system but if you're interested; i'm happy to post any useful updates & information i come to find.

GPS Studio Services wrote:


The topic of this thread is "Portable Cycloramas."  I've built several permanent ones and have an 18'x23' one in my current studio.  I can tell you though, I don't have a portable one and have never considered one.

This is actually a good topic and I would love to see it get back on track.  I am wondering if anyone here has actually owned or used a portable unit?  I am familiar with several models which are available, but I don't know anyone that owns one.

Used it on a regular basis in my Deb' and Graduation days, trust me, it's not rocket surgery


.... 9 years!

Damn!