This is the simplest type of lantern, consisting of a lamp and a reflector in a metal box, with no lens. The reflector concentrates the light towards the opening in the box, giving a flood of light (hence the name). There is no control over the focus of a flood, other than its general direction.

Some floods have an asymmetric / directional reflector and are designed to light cycloramas (see diagram below).

Older type symmetrical floods use standard ES (Edison Screw) or GES (Giant Edison Screw) filament lamps. The newer asymmetrical reflector floods (often called Cyc Floods) use linear lamps (to ensure an even coverage across the reflector).

Due to their limitations, floods are usually limited to lighting the cyclorama and flat scenery, although floods were once an essential part of many lighting systems. In studio spaces they often provide a form of houselighting.

A unit with several floods joined together is called a batten, and these are in common use throughout the country. Each compartment (or individual flood) of a batten can be coloured and controlled separately, or combined together – this is ideal for lighting the cyclorama in a wide range of colours. Battens can also be placed on the floor, and are known as a groundrow.

Symmetrical Reflector

An example of a lantern with a symmetrical reflector is the Strand Nocturne.

Asymmetrical Reflector

An example of a lantern with an asymmetrical reflector is the Strand Coda

Older Lanterns

Older flood lanterns include the Strand Patt 60 or Patt 137