There wouldn’t be film without film lighting. Lighting is as crucial to cinematic storytelling as a script and a subject, and filmmakers have experimented with different lumination techniques for as long as the medium has existed. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about lighting for film, from terminology to techniques. Ready to dive into over a hundred years worth of lighting knowledge?Continue reading Film Lighting — The Ultimate Guide (w/ Video & Cheatsheet)
Finding a production lighting kit for an upcoming film can be a daunting task. There are many different kinds of lights you can use, and each have their own strengths and weaknesses. But understanding the different forms of film and videography lighting gives you a solid start. For today’s post we looked to great minds in the field, and professional cinematographers as well, to shine a light on the types of film and video lighting kits you need to know about. The first step to painting cinematic pictures with light is knowing the types of light. Then you can pick-and-choose…
Photography is an art that allows us to capture moments, tell stories, and express emotions. One of the most important, yet often overlooked, aspects of photography is the backdrop. The backdrop can dramatically change the overall look and feel of the picture, setting the scene and emphasizing the subject. In this article, we'll delve into what a photography backdrop is, explore its various uses, and discuss the different types of backdrops available. Continue reading What is a Backdrop in Photography — Types & Creative Uses
Have you ever wondered how the pros get their photos and films to look just so perfectly lit? One of their secrets is a trusty tool called a light meter. Whether you're a budding photographer, an avid cinematographer, or just someone curious about the magic behind impactful visuals, understanding how a light meter works can significantly elevate your craft. In this guide, we're dissecting the world of light meters. We'll explore what they do, how they work, and why they're considered invaluable to visual storytellers. Continue reading What is a Light Meter — Types, Functions, & How They Work
Have you ever tried to capture a beautiful moment on camera, only to be disappointed by harsh shadows or poorly lit subjects? This is where fill flash in photography comes into play. It's not about overpowering your photos with a bright flash, but rather using it subtly to balance out the lighting and eliminate unwanted shadows. Continue reading What is Fill Flash — Photography Tips & Techniques
Lighting plays a crucial role in the world of photography and cinematography, as it helps create mood, atmosphere, and depth in images. Among various lighting techniques, book lighting stands out as an essential method that can significantly impact the visual storytelling process. This technique is widely used by professionals to enhance subject focus, create a sense of dimension, and emphasize textures and details in both photography and cinematography. In this article, we will explore the concept of book lighting and discuss its importance in image making.Continue reading What is Book Lighting — Techniques for Photography & Film
Film Lighting: The Ultimate Guide (FREE Ebook)A foundational guide for photographers and cinematographers aspiring to master the art of cinematic lighting.We'll cover the attributes of light, the equipment involved and tips on shooting in various lighting scenarios. Types of Film Lighting ExplainedAchieving cinematic lighting starts with knowing "the rules"Great lighting is what separates the amateurs from the professionals. Cinematographers with firm grasp on how the combination of light and shadow can support visual storytelling all started with the fundamentals.This guide is a jumpstart towards that goal. By learning how light works and how to harness it, you can approach any lighting…
Lighting is one of the most crucial aspects of cinematography. There are literally infinite ways to light a scene, and each one has the potential to drastically change how people view the subject. When you want a dramatic effect that makes the subject’s face interesting, you want what’s known as Rembrandt lighting.A Rembrandt lighting setup is common in the field of photography. It’s a great way to draw a viewer’s attention to a precise area of the photograph. However, cinematographers have much they can learn from this technique. Let’s look at this technique and how it can help you attain…
If you’re just starting out or simply looking to expand your filmmaking toolkit, soft box lights are a must. Knowing how to diffuse and soften your light is just as important as knowing how to light the shot itself. So whether you’re a hobbyist or beginner-enthusiast ready to get your first studio kit, it’s good to know what’s out there. So let’s get into the best softbox lighting kits for 2021. Featured photo courtesy of Spectrum.Continue reading Best Soft Box Lights — The Ultimate Buying Guide
LED lights have become a favorite for many cinematographers. There are tons of great options available, but knowing which to choose can take some heavy research. Which is the best LED kit for video production?Continue reading 27 Best LED Video Lights for Video Production