Abstract: A portable HMI light fixture with integral ballast for use in the motion picture and television industries. The inventive HMI fixture includes: a housing having a front portion and a rear portion; a socket secured in the front portion for removably receiving an HMI bulb; a ballast secured in the rear portion; and a thermal barrier separating the front and rear portions. Preferably the thermal barrier includes a reflective forward surface to direct radiated energy away from the rear portion, provides thermal insulation between the front portion and rear portion, and restricts airflow between the front and rear portions.