There’s no denying that proper lighting is an essential part of video production. You can use light to set the mood, convey your story, and create a specific feeling or atmosphere. Different lighting can be used for various purposes, so it’s important to know what each type does and how to use it effectively. Here are some of the most common types of video production lighting and tips on using them to their full effect.
Practical Lighting
Practical lighting is any light that already exists in the scene, such as lamps, overhead lights, rechargeable headlamps, or natural light coming through a window. These are often the first lights you notice when you enter a room, and you can use them to your advantage in video production.
While shooting, inspect the space and see what practical lights are available. Could you use a rechargeable headlamp to brighten exterior shots in low-light settings or nighttime shoots? Can you use a lamp to create a warm, inviting feeling? Or is there an overhead light that can add some drama to the scene?
Bounce Lighting
Bounce lighting is a soft light created by bouncing light off a surface. This can be done with natural or artificial light, but it’s most commonly done with artificial light. The surface can be anything from a white wall to a reflector.
Bounce lighting is often used in interviews because it creates a soft, flattering light on the subject’s face. It’s also a great way to brighten a dark scene or add light to an otherwise flat image.
You’ll need a light source and reflector to create bounce lighting. The reflector can be anything from a white piece of cardboard to a professional reflector panel. If you’re using natural light, position your subject so the light reflects off a nearby wall or another surface.
When using artificial light, set up your reflector and light source so the light bounces off the reflector and onto your subject. Then you can experiment with different positions to find the perfect balance of light and shadow.
Ambient Light
Ambient light is the light already present at the shooting location, whether natural or artificial. This video production lighting can create a specific mood or feeling in your video.
To create a warm and inviting feeling, use ambient light sources like lamps or overhead lights. For a more dramatic look, use dim ambient light or position your subject so there’s a backlight.
To use ambient light effectively, you need to know how to control it. For shooting indoors, turn off artificial lights you don’t want in the shot. For outdoor shoots, control the light with reflectors or diffusers.
Fill Light
Fill light “fills in” the shadows in a scene, making the image appear brighter and more evenly lit. This can be done with natural or artificial light, but artificial light is the most common.
Fill light is often used in interviews or other situations where you want the subject’s face to be well-lit. It’s also a practical, effective way to brighten a dark scene or add some light to an otherwise flat image.
When using fill light, it’s important to get the least amount of shadows possible. You can do this by positioning the light directly opposite the subject. You can also use a reflector to cast light onto the subject’s face.
Good lighting is one of the most important video production elements, yet it’s often overlooked. By understanding the different types of lighting and how to use them, you can create mood in your shots and create some great effects.