Lighting is a key element in creating compelling images. The most effective films have always used lighting as a tool to evoke emotion. This video features many of the best in the field of cinema lighting and is full of illuminating commmentary.
Posted by: Ken Harper on Jul 14, 2009 at 6:23:24 am
Nice comment, Mike. Like you, I paid attention to the way that the subjects were lit as they talked about various aspects and points about the way that they work with light. It was quite fascinating and one might say illuminating (sorry, there are the bad jokes again) to see the way ideas are explored in the interviews.
Don't forget to observe the way the interview subjects are lit - while talking about lighting.
Interviews are the only time I get to do really creative lighting, usually with a 4 light Omni kit and some gels, umbrellas and soft spun. Some great results, sometimes luck plays a role. Practice makes perfect, but you can always improve. The key is to remember what worked. I often take a snapshot of a setup I like.
The work of great cinematographers is always inspiring. You always know great lighting when you see it.
Recently, one of our members -- Dan Parsons, a marvelous cinematographer -- posted his reel in the COW's reels section and our members really "lit up" (sorry I couldn't pass that up!) the comments about it. Check it out if you have a minute.
Ken
Nice of you to add this video for more people to witness.
I have had a passion for lighting for nearly 30 years now and it took many years to gain the experience of what this video points to, however getting to play with large lighting equipment is priceless and I have been blessed with this good fortune. There is a price for everything and good lighting comes from individuals who possess the passion and experience to make the smallest units work in place of the larger ones.
