Introduction to Cinematography

12Shaping and Controling Light

Cinematography is rightly and frequently referred to as: ‘Painting with Light’. Being able to control how and where light falls not only allows you to make spaces and subjects look three-dimensional; it also helps to create a visual tapestry of light, shade, color and tone that can define a film and help tell a story. This chapter looks at methods for controling the direction, intensity, softness and color of light and how to control where it does and doesn’t fall. The chapter starts by looking at the effect of direction and height on key, back and fill light, and which lamps to choose to emulate which natural sources. It goes on to look at the uses, tools and techniques for creating shapes and shadows, how to ...