Lighting

• Low-key

  More dramatic, threatening shadow areas associated with horror movies and film noir. It creates a strong contrast between light and shadow areas so much of the scene will be in darkness.
• High-key

  The most common form of lighting in Hollywood films. Produces an even spread of softer, rounded tones, making the detail within shadow areas more visible. Not confined to daylight shots.
• Lighting

  Helps to create a film's aesthetic and/or create meaning and manipulate audience responses. Supports in creating a film's mood and emphasises key elements of Mise-en-Scène.
• Three-Point Lighting

  The standard lighting norm of Hollywood cinema to brightly light the scene, focus the audience's attention on important elements of the image and remote distracting shadows.

  Three-Point Lighting is generally naturalistic and not meant to draw attention to itself.
• Key Light


  Main light source.
• Fill light


  For eliminating or softening shadows.
• Back Light (rim light)


  Placed high up or down low behind the subject so that they stand out. With female subjects it is often to make the hair glow and create a glamorous halo effect.
• Chiaroscuro


  Italian for 'light to dark'.

  Refers to the use of strong contrasts between light and dark.

  Expressionistic - draws attention to itself and is meant to look stylish.