Painting with Light: Principles of Cinematography

Control light direction to shape subjects and create mood.

Set up three-point lighting (key, fill, back) for a basic scene.

Modify light quality using diffusion and bounce to create soft or hard shadows.

Use practical lights (e.g., lamps, windows) as motivated light sources.

Create a high-key lighting setup to convey an optimistic or clean mood.

Create a low-key lighting setup to build drama or suspense.