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Introduction:  Lighting

Film directors work closely with the director of photography on a project to ensure that each scene has the look and feel they intend.  The lighting of each scene influences your reaction to what you see and hear.

Lighting can impact the overall mood of a scene.  Lighting can also emphasize a character and highlight his or her characteristics.

Low-key Lighting

Low-key lighting creates shadows in the shot.  In these shots, there is a contrast between light and dark spaces in the scene.

WHAT IS THE EFFECT?

Low-key lighting can create a sense of mystery and suspense.

Side Lighting

Side lighting lights half of the subject, leaving the other half in shadow.

WHAT IS THE EFFECT?

Side lighting is used when the director wants to emphasize that a character may not be who he seems or is perhaps feeling torn between two difficult choices he must make.