DIYP reader Maor Cohen of Kaveret sent us this sweet tip about using suction pads for securing light stands. It has some huge benefits over carrying several kilos per stand in sand bags. Of course they are easier to carry, not as messy, and provide more security.
The idea is kinda self explanatory from the photo, but Maor sent us some more details about this hack. The suction pad used is a triple suction cup capable of carrying up to 309lb, and originally intended for lifting glass or fixing car dents. (you can also use a smaller double cup version which will support up to 130lb). Next you will have to secure the base of the stand to the suction mount and make sure it is tight and this is it.
This specific pad was tested in events several hours long and did not lose suction. Not bad for a $26 solution.
The obvious caveat is that you can only use those where you have a nice smooth clean floor (think dedicated venues, marble floor and basketball courts). For ‘regular’ outdoors, carpets, most hardwood floors and so on, it’s back to sand bags.
P.S. if you don’t have any available ‘good floor’, you can double duty those to secure a small light to a window using a super clamp.
