Lighting uses in film

Lighting

Lighting is used in all types of media and is used to create different atmospheres and feelings to a scene that can quickly change based on the events of the plot. Lighting can help show an audience the message that a director is trying to create for the viewers as well as the emotions of a scene. Lighting can show who each character is and how they factor into the plot.

Firstly, small light like bulbs or direct light from the sun can create strong and hard shadows. These do require other lights to reduce the intensity of the light. Small lights are used to create strong atmospheres. This is often used in Neo-Noir crime films

Big light like cloudy skies or light that is reflected off a white wall creates even lighting as well as soft shadows. This is important for large groups shots and that need to be more realistic.

The direction of light is also important in how a shot is presented. 

A three quarter light at 45 degrees is where most lights are positioned and create the standard lighting in a shot. This adds a more natural feel to the shot.

Light positioned from above makes people's eyes disappear into a shadow and add an almost religious feeling to the character.

Light from the front can create an out of focus shadow from behind a character or object.

Light from a side produces a low key mood.

Lighting from below makes a character seem scary.

If a camera is aimed into the light, this will create a silhouette effect.

It should also be noted that:

• A lower camera contrast/intensity should be used when filming for the best quality film.
• Reflectors fill in shadows.
• Diffusers make light bigger and softer.
• Outdoors- Best to shoot with even cloud. Low sunlight can create an atmospheric effect.
• Indoors- Use practicals like ceiling lights and table lamps and use brighter bulbs to boost light.

Three point lighting involves three cameras: the key, the fill and the back and these three wrap the scene in light. They also create shadows that define whatever it is that they are pointed at like the face of a person, but do not overpower it.

Soft front light/hotback lighting creates a white line that appears sinister. The spotlight from the back creates a halo effect where the shot is dark yet still well lit.