Sequence Analysis- A Boy Called Dad
Lighting and colour
Lighting and colour can be used as visual tools to create meaning, and to create a sense of depth and three-dimensionality. Both help to establish mood and atmosphere and can highlight and define certain objects and characters to code a story.
| Term | Description |
|---|---|
Types of lightingDifferent light sources and positioning create different effects. |
Key light: this is the main source of light that will ensure the subject of the shot is lit, usually from the front. Back light: a light source positioned behind the subject. Used without a key light, this creates a silhouette, shrouding the subject in darkness for dramatic effect. Fill light: to fill in other parts of the shot with light as appropriate, usually from a side angle. Source light: lighting that is visible in the shot, like a window or lamp. |
Contrast rangeThe range of lighting in a shot can be altered for effect. |
High key: full use of key, back and fill light to create a flat, even range of light with little use of shadows or depth. For example, a Hollywood musical utilises this type of lighting. Low key: noticeable contrast between light and dark, shadows and light. Creates depth in a shot. Commonly this will be achieved by using key light and little use of back and fill light. Film Noir is a classic example of this lighting. |
Colour temperatureCombined with the quality of light in the scene, colour temperature can establish a tone of either warmth or coldness. This is done by using light filters, diffusers and different coloured gels fixed over the camera lens. |
Warm colours such as red and amber often provide an image or shot with a sense of warmth, with blues and greys used to create a sense of coldness. The colour temperature will not always be consciously noticed by viewers making it an effective tool for creating mood, atmosphere and to code a story so that it has greater dramatic clarity. |
Colour paletteThe predominant colour scheme. Used for dramatic and emotional effect as well as story and character definition. |
Colours are often used for their associations. Darker colours like red and black suggest passion, danger and evil; lighter colours like white suggest purity and innocence, while historical films might use a brown, yellow or sepia colour palette. The colour palette will be emphasised through costume, set design, location, lighting and temperature. |