My Humanities Studio : Film

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Cinematography

Ligthing

Directors can manipulate lighting to transform moods and the impact of various images. Light and shadows elicit various emotional responses from the viewers. There are two main kinds of light sources “Key light” is the primary source, providing the dominant illumination and casting the strongest shadows. A “fill light” is a less intense illumination that fills in and softens the shadows cast by the key light.

The direction of lighting in a shot refers to the path of light from its source to the object lit. “Frontal lighting” has the light source in front of the object, and “back lighting” comes from behind the object being filmed. All these elements of lighting are carefully combined in a finished film.


Spaceman, 2005 Walter Behrnes Computer model The head electrician who supervises the placement and rigging of the lights is called the "gaffer". In Hollywood production, the gaffer’s assistant is called the “best boy.” Turn on or off the Key, Back or Fill lights. You can experiment with any combination of them. Notice how the mood of the character changes.