Cinematography

Lighting in audio-visual media is sometimes considered as part of the cinematography and sometimes as part of the mise en scene, this is why we are starting with the lighting.

There are two aspects of lighting we need to cover and these are the technical aspects of lighting. Where we look at how particular lighting effects are achieves by the cinematographer. And the analytical aspect of lighting where we look at the effects the lighting has and look for meaning within its use.

 

The main point of the 4 point lighting system is to stimulate "natural" light and to replicate the lighting of any given location.

When you start to remove, add or play when the intensity of the lights then you get lighting that is created for a particular purpose.

Low-Key Lighting 
Eliminated fill light
Much bigger contrast between light and dark
Create mood/tension

High Key Lighting
Bright surrounding light
Does not create emotion/tension
Does highlight colours, especially bright ones
Economical