NOTES ON LIGHTING
Lighting can change the way we perceive an object and thereby affecting the mood of the scene and representation of that object or character. In horror, the contrast and shadows can have more of an effect on a scene than we realise, causing us to fear the darkness where anything could be obscured from our vision. This low key lighting is commonly used in horror films. It tends to heighten the sense of alienation felt by the audience.
On the other hand, high key lighting leaves very few shadows and can create a washed out look. Many bright lights are need in order to flood the scene with light. This is usually used to reveal settings, characters or objects. The contrast between light and dark can also have have a dramatic effect. |
1. Key light
As the main light it is one of the most important that the camera uses. It's main function is to highlight the main object. In a 3-point setup it is used with a back light and one more light to focus on the subject. 2. Fill light
The fill light's purpose is to lessen the contrast and shadows around the subject, making the lighting more natural by being placed at a different angle to the key light. It tends to be softer than the main key light. 3. Back light
This light is placed behind the subject to illuminate it, creating the sense of depth between characters or objects. It can also create a silhouette effect or separation of the subject and background. 4. Background light
As the name suggests, this is used to brighten the background and steady the contrast between the subject in the foreground. |