Here is Why Lighting is Important

Public Domain Clker Image: OCAL

Ever watch a movie and realize that it's either too dark or too bright? I have. And it defeats the whole movie. Today I am going to talk about lighting.

Lighting shows normalcy. Fear. Happiness. Sadness. Bravery. What I have been telling you so far? Different types of mood. Lighting helps convey what the character is feeling or what is happening in the environment that the character is experiencing. Are you beginning to see why lighting is important? Lighting helps create atmosphere!

By Theonlysilentbob, converted to SVG by tiZom (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Depending on what film set you are on, there is a standard type of lighting: 3-point lighting. There may be more or less depending on the movie and the scene you are shooting. The first type of lighting is the key light. The key light is your main light and it is the strongest. Next, is the the fill light which is used to create shadows. It is also placed on the opposite side of the key light. Finally, the back light which is (based on the title) placed in the back. This is to help create highlights and provide a three-dimensional look. If you have a fourth light, use it for the background.

Sure, you may not have all the best lighting gear, but just start small. Perhaps you can even use the natural light in the room. Not the most recommended, but using natural light to work for you is possible. Candles, desk lamps, even a flashlight can make a good lighting source depending on what you are going for. Remember: what is in front and behind the camera is more important than the camera itself.