For aspiring filmmakers, mastering the art of cinematography begins with one crucial element: lighting. Los Angeles-based filmmaker Brittney Janae, celebrated for her clean aesthetic and emotionally resonant storytelling, emphasizes that understanding and mastering lighting is the key to elevating your filmmaking skills. Watch and read more below:
Observing Light Without A Camera
Janae encourages filmmakers to step back and observe light naturally. "Taking the time to look at a photo and see how the light comes in. See what it’s doing with your shadows. Really dissect lighting from a different standpoint without your camera, so when you bring your camera in you already know how to see light," she says. This practice can help you develop that intuitive understanding of lighting conditions, so you can make informed lighting decisions more naturally during an actual shoot.
Learning To See Light First
A common misconception among beginners is the need to invest in lighting equipment before mastering the basics. Janae dispels this myth: "A lot of times we feel like we have to go buy the light first to practice it, it’s like no, learn how to see it with your eye." By honing your ability to perceive light, you can make smarter choices when it comes to purchasing gear.
Using Inspirational Photos As A Learning Tool
One of Janae's top tips is to download inspirational photos and study the use of light in each image. Ask yourself questions like:
- What is the contrast doing?
- Where are the shadows angled?
- Where is the light coming from?
- How is the light hitting? (Is it a sparkle? Is it harsh?)
By asking these questions and exploring other photographs, you can better understand how to replicate or modify lighting styles in your own work.
See more of Brittney Janae’s work on Instagram @brittney.janae and on her YouTube Channel.
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