EP 16: the director's spotlight: a deep dive Into lighting in filmmaking
In every successful film or video, lighting plays a paramount role. From defining the mood and atmosphere to emphasizing the narrative, it shapes our visual perception and directs our focus towards what's important in the scene. The art of lighting is not only vital but also highly nuanced.
To shed more light on this subject, I had a super fun chat with Drew, famously known as 'Drew the Director'. Drew is an a talented videographer with over a decade of experience in the industry capturing stories through visually stunning videography.
Lighting: The Backbone of Visual Storytelling
In our conversation, Drew gave us a glimpse into the world of lighting in film and videography. The idea isn't just to ensure everything is visible, but rather, to enhance the story and draw the viewer deeper into the narrative. Explaining that concept, Drew shared how he focuses on creating "dynamic storytelling," through light and shadow.
Understanding Key Lighting in Photography
One of the most primary aspects of lighting is the 'key light.' Drew likens it to the 'most prominent light on the subject's face,' creating the brightest part on the visible surface. Depending on where the light is placed in relation to the camera and subject, it dramatically alters the quality and depth of shadows on the subject.
Choosing the right tools is crucial for mastering lighting. Drew prefers the Aputure 60 X for its high power, versatility, and battery operation feature. He suggested starting with one light and playing with its different angles and positions to see its effect on the subject. The best part is in the experimentation and constantly trying different setups that all help to understand the impact of variations in lighting.
Finding Your Own Lighting Style
Just like every artist has a unique style, every videographer or photographer develops their lighting style over time. Drew loves playing with backlighting and enjoys the creative challenge that each new brand video presents. Working with varying conditions, from indoor studios to outdoor locations, each scenario demands a different approach to lighting.
Looking forward, Drew plans to further his exploration in lighting, intending to bring out educational content focused on lighting - including guidelines, courses, and even digital tools to assist other photographers and videographers.
Lighting is indeed a game changer in video and film creation. It's what sets apart a generic shot from a spectacular one all while telling a compelling story. It's crucial to invest in understanding and mastering this skill, making it a tool to enhance your storytelling capabilities.
In the words of Drew himself, "If there's one thing that I would leave on this earth, I wouldn't want anyone to waste another second doing something that they don't feel like is resonant or aligned with their life." Pursue what ignites passion within you, and channel that enthusiasm into creating something beautiful — whether it be through light, shadow, or any other medium of your choice.
Find Drew:
Website: drewthedirector.com
Instagram: @drewthedirector
