Scrim (lighting)

A scrim is a device used in the film and television industries, as well as by photographers, to modify properties of light.

A half scrim, as implied by its name, only has the mesh halfway across, which will allow the full intensity of light to fall on part of a scene.

A scrim can also be a translucent gauze type material that may be fastened onto a frame, and used outdoors to reduce the intensity of, and soften harsh light on subjects/people being filmed or photographed.

They are available in a multitude of shapes and sizes, either small enough to be held in one hand by a photographer or assistant, up to almost tent like contraptions.

The scrim is placed close to the subject, diffusing and reducing the intensity of light, which is much more flattering, especially for portraits.