Film/TV Analysis Reflection Four, Question 7

Please outline some points that you took away from the Lighting Lecture. Points that excite you, something that was completely new to you, perplexes you or even one you take issue with.

I was unable to make it to the lighting lecture due to unpredicted circumstances (I would like to note though that this is the only lecture I’ve missed!), so as compensation I have had to get my creeper on and stalk some friends blogs.

From what I’ve been able to piece together, a major part of the lecture was focused on “three point lighting”, and from what I’ve read – it’s very interesting (and completely new to me!!)
So I’ve done some extra research, specifically on mediacollege.com.  (MC)
According to MC, The three point lighting technique is “a simple but versatile system which forms the basis of most lighting….that uses three lights called the key light, fill light and back light”.

The Key light is the main light, and in most cases is the strongest and most predominant. It is usually situated on one side of the subject so that that one see is fully exposed by light.
The Fill light is softer, and is situated on the opposite side of the key light. It’s purpose it to ‘fill’ the shadows created by the key light. According to MC, for the best result, the fill light should be set more of a ‘flood’ option.
The Backlight, as it’s name, sits behind the subject, lighting it’s behind. “…its purpose is to provide definition and subtle highlights around the subject’s outlines. This helps separate the subject from the background and provide a three-dimensional look.” (MC)

image from: http://www.mediacollege.com/lighting/images/lighting-floorplan-back.gif

I am actually extremely disappointed that I was unable to attend this lecture, as lighting for me is something I am interested in. I believe it’s effect on the mood of a scene is agronomical, and therefore is something that really cannot be overlooked.

I was able to attend the class however, and the issue I mostly had with the lighting concept was that we didn’t seem to spend too long focused on it. For something that is such a major player within a scene and film, I feel as though it would have been nice to pay more attention to it, or possibly have some notes to take home.