lighting Flashcards
How the position of lighting creates meaning
The position, intensity, colour and quality of lighting can communicate character, mood and atmosphere. Light and shade can emphasise distance, time of day, season, emotion and attractiveness of the subject.
The basic three-point lighting system
The black light is behind the subject, separating them from background. It provides depth and 3d definition and highlights.
Key light- main, brightest light (dominant light source). Aimed at subject of shot. Slightly to one side; casts the most and darkest shadows .
Fil light- softer light. Opposite key light; reduces key lights shadows. Creates mood by making shadows darker or lighter. Reduces contrast to show natural detail.
Polts-front
Shadows cast behind the subject. The effect of this is that it captures colour and details, such as facial expression and can look dramatic but 2d. This can be seen through the film bones (horror)
Polts-overhead
Shadows cast in eye sockets and under nose. The effect is that it can look threatening. This can be seen through the film, the godfather (thriller)
Polts- under
Shadows cast over most of the face. The effect is that it can look sinister, this can be seen through the horror movie Dracula
Polts- side
Shadows cast on the opposite side of the subject and can obscure part of the scene. The effect is that it can appear 3d and adds drama/ look sinister, this can be seen through the action film terminator 2 ‘judgements day’
polts-Back/behind
Shadows cast in front of the subject and darkens the shot. The effect is the definition, silhouettes, halo effect, muted colours, creates mystery and intensity, sense of intimacy. This can be seen through the fantasy movie the lord of the rings 20212 an unexpected journey.
Kelvins-hot 2000k
Red, can signify passion and
Kelvins warm-3000-5000k
Gold and pink can signify joy, romance and calmness
Kelvins cold-6000-10000k
Blue and grey can signify depression, seriousness and sadness
kevins natural-5500k
White can signify reality and truth
Example of colour and shadows creating meaning
The matrix uses colour to establish setting and indicate opposing realities. Scenes set in the matrix are a sickly green, while scenes set in reality are a soft blue.
High key lighting
Tends to removes harsh shadows from an image. Emphasizes white and bright colours. Replicates a sunny day conveying a positive and upbeat tone. Can also imply high quality in advertising.
Genres include; romance, musicals, comedy, action, product photography, high-end brand advertising
Low key lighting
Creates more shadows, empahsisng dark, grey, and black tones. Creating a sense of drama, tension, alienation, foreboding and threat.
Genres include; horror, film noir, thrillers, and detective
