Research - Lighting

     I decided to continue my research to explore how lighting is used in cinematography to express mood, highlight characters, and influence how the audience interprets a scene. I have learned that lighting is a very important visual tool when filmmaking. For instance, without the addition of a dialogue or even a change in action the tone of a scene can still be completely changed just by altering the lighting. 

Types of lighting

    There are many types of lighting, however the main two that are mostly focused on are high and low key lighting. High-key lighting is when a scene is brightly and evenly lit. Often seen in comedies or light hearted films. Low-key lighting is the use of shadows to create contrast. This is used in darker and more dramatic films. 

Natural lighting

    Natural lighting is when a source of light is the real world sunlight. This type of lighting creates a realistic and authentic setting. Especially at certain hours of the day like golden hour, the warm glow gives a joyful feeling. It expresses nostalgia, which is usually seen in coming of age films. This is something I will be using in my film opening to reflect a relatable setting.

Practical Lighting

    This is the lighting that comes from physical light sources within the scene. This can include lamps, vanity lights, phone screens, or streetlights. This type of lighting can help ground the film, making it feel real rather than a skit. For instance, a lamp can make the audience feel at home since it produces a warm mood. 

    In conclusion, I plan to mostly use natural lighting to create a nostalgic and relatable feel.  My research into lighting has helped me understand how lighting choices can add emotion and meaning to a film. This research has influenced how I will film the opening, I will make choices that accurately support the storyline.