Cinematography with Fog!
Fog is always a popular element in films, especially in horror films and suspense films. When we meet James to discuss our film project, he mentioned that we can use fog to make create the effect of indistinct. It is a good advice. Besides, it is a good chance to try something new, which I always like to do. Thus, I search online and find the way to achieve this effect.
In this video, it shows clearly that fog can make the light more clear in the air.
There are lots of advantages of using fog. For example, it can add depth to the shot, diffuse light, make the frame soft by sorting shadows and highlights, and simply create the atmosphere to fit the theme of the film. Besides, the effect of using a flashlight in the fog environment just looks fantastic.
In addition, the different concentration of fog can present different effects. A little fog with fan blowing can make the light soft and a lot of fog can make the strong mood, especially the fantasy effect.
“Spielbergian vibe”: it is a special method to create various atmosphere by diffuses light and add different colors.
In the scene of E.T., he creates different depths in the frame by using fogs. For me, it looks more advanced and natural than using the focus of cameras. Besides, it also can create the mood of the dream.
The use of fog in Lincoln is restrained but works so well. It did can get the attention of the audience but it doesn’t take away the main focus from the character. Besides, it creates the retro mood.
How to choose fog machine in different situations?
Outdoor: In outdoor, the normal fog machine is too light for it. Use fog machine plus dry ice may be a good way to achieve the effect.
Indoor, normal fog machine is enough when we film in an apartment or house. Sometimes, it is going to be gobbet. At that time, it is good to use a fan to make the fog more equal in the air.
Reference:
V Renée 2014, Fog, Smoke, & Haze: The Swiss Army Knives of Cinematography Tools, nofilmschool, viewed 30 September 2018, <https://nofilmschool.com/2014/05/fog-smoke-haze-the-swiss-army-knives-of-cinematography-tools>.
Film Riot 2014, Cinematography with Fog, Youtube, 1 May, American, viewed 30 September 2018, <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6zJcjHYDIys>.
Get a Sci-fi Look with Dry Ice & Fog!
After watching the last video, the image of this video is so attractive. Thus, I do a continuing research about the fog.
Low hanging fog:
Preparation: cooler, fog machine, PVC, dry ice
A styrofoam cooler is cheaper and easier to work with. The first step is to make an opening on the one side of the cooler. Then connect the export of the fog machine with a PVC then connect the PVC to the cooler on the other side. Next, put the dry ice in the cooler with gloves and close it. Finally, open the fog machine, the fog can show up and it hangs very low.
Add various color lights can create various moods. For example, set a backlight behind the character, a stable light beside the character and a twinkling light in front of the character. Different types of light can make the image more interesting. The slow running fog and the twinkling light make the scene attractive. I am so excited to use it in the futural filmings.
Reference:
Film Riot 2014, Get a Sci-fi Look with Dry Ice & Fog!, Youtube, 1 May, American, viewed 30 September 2018, <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=APTf1HwzRR4>.