What is a matte box for

[DannyG]

I'll probably get a book that answers this question soon, but being the total layman that I am this is one thing I notice on alot of camera pictures. What does a matte box do?

 

[Digigenic]

A mattebox generally helps to prevent harsh unwanted light from entering the lens at an unwanted angle, creating lens flares and/or other abnormalities. You'll find different types of Matteboxes, some larger, some smaller, some that extend from small to large, all of them will assist in achieving an evenly lit appearance in the picture without drawing attention to the lens.

 

[Kevin_Zanit]

They also hold filters. Most have 3 stage (thus can hold 3 filters). They take, usually 4x4 square filters. This gives you the ability to use filters like grads. Also, when you get into higer end cine lenses, they do not have threads for screw on lenses.

 

[shoichi]

To prevent lens flare (often with eyebrow/french flag), to hold filters (ND, diffusions, polarizer)... all in different size depending on system (2x2 to 6x6).

Some are clip-on sun shades.

 

[Michael Bruder]

Hallo, I am about to buy me a matte box with follow focus. I could spend approx. 500 - 600 Dollars. What brand can you recommend for a good quality matte box? I want to use it for my CANON EOS 550D.

 

[Kim Welch]

You want the matte box and follow focus in one unit or separately?

 

[Tylerb]

It's a giant lens shade, just like the smaller ones you put on your lens. It also allows filters like the others have said.

Not only is it a better option from a lens shade, it also looks way cooler and more professional to.