Light can come from different directions and that has different effects on the image.
Rarely is light from only one source or direction used;
at most when a strong and deliberately unrealistic dramatic effect is needed.
Usually multiple sources from multiple directions are used for a more balanced picture.
The default directions are:
– Front lighting:
Light coming directly from the front removes the shadows and makes the image appear flat.
Therefore, it is rarely used.
– Backlight:
Light coming directly from behind creates depth between the subject and the background.
In hard light, it creates a fringe of light around the subject, creating a silhouette.
It produces mystery and drama, as in the example of The Remains Of The Day.
– Side lighting:
Light from the side accentuates the subject's shape and texture, producing strong shadows.
– Underlight:
Light from below looks unnatural, because natural light comes from above.
It distorts the perception of the subject. It is often used in horror movies for its sinister effect.
– Top lighting: Light coming directly from above focuses attention on the subject.
Think of the spotlights at pop concerts.
https://sites.google.com/view/movielightning/filmlight
Light can come from different directions and that has different effects on the image.
Rarely is light from only one source or direction used;
at most when a strong and deliberately unrealistic dramatic effect is needed.
Usually multiple sources from multiple directions are used for a more balanced picture.
The default directions are:
– Front lighting:
Light coming directly from the front removes the shadows and makes the image appear flat.
Therefore, it is rarely used.
– Backlight:
Light coming directly from behind creates depth between the subject and the background.
In hard light, it creates a fringe of light around the subject, creating a silhouette.
It produces mystery and drama, as in the example of The Remains Of The Day.
– Side lighting:
Light from the side accentuates the subject's shape and texture, producing strong shadows.
– Underlight:
Light from below looks unnatural, because natural light comes from above.
It distorts the perception of the subject. It is often used in horror movies for its sinister effect.
– Top lighting: Light coming directly from above focuses attention on the subject.
Think of the spotlights at pop concerts.
https://sites.google.com/view/movielightning/filmlight