Why lighting is essential for a quality video
When we work with small business owners or marketers on their first video they’re often surprised by all of our equipment, particularly our lighting. So, we thought we would take this opportunity to “shed some light” on the critical role that proper illumination plays in video shoots and how it can make for a high-quality looking video, often even more so than the camera type we use.
Illuminating the significance of lighting
Understanding the importance of lighting is fundamental to creating captivating and effective videos. Lighting sets the tone for your video, allowing you to convey the desired mood, whether it's warmth and intimacy or drama and urgency. Well-lit scenes create depth, making your video more immersive and engaging. Also, proper lighting makes your subjects appear clean and professional reducing imperfections and ensuring that everything looks its best. Lighting directs the viewer's focus to essential elements, like product features, within your video, to effectively communicate your message. A decent camera with good use of lighting can be just as effective, if not better, than the use of a top-of-the line camera.
What the heck is a gaffer and why do I need one?
While it may end up costing a little more, having professional lighting experts, also called gaffers, involved with your project can take your video quality to the next level. Lighting experts understand how different setups impact videos and can achieve the right balance for stunning visuals. These professionals have access to a wide range of lighting equipment, ensuring you get the best tools for your project. While some people ask why the camera operator can’t just do the lighting, hiring experts not only provides deeper knowledge but can actually save valuable time during setup and shooting, allowing the videographer to focus on the shot along with the gaffer instead of running back and forth to check the lighting.
How many lights do I need?
The number of lights required for your video shoot depends on various factors such as location size, video type, and the desired atmosphere. Smaller shoots can take 2-4 lights and larger ones can use as many as 10. Each light serves a different purpose and all work together to create a desired effect:
Key Light: This primary light source sets the overall mood and is usually placed to one side of your subject.
Fill Light: Positioned opposite the key light, it reduces shadows and evens out lighting on your subject.
Backlight: Placed behind your subject, it adds depth and separation from the background.
Additional Lights: Depending on your needs, you may require extra lights like hair lights, accent lights, or background lights.
All of this is why proper lighting in video production is not a luxury, it's a necessity. It shapes the mood, enhances visual appeal, guides attention, and adds depth to your videos.
Investing in proper lighting and working with experts ensures your video content stands out, captivates your audience, and achieves your objectives. For a little homework, pay attention to the lighting in the next commercial, TV show, movie or news interview you watch and see how it changes the video’s feel.
Have more questions about lighting? Watch or listen to our podcast episode: “How Proper Lighting Can Boost Your Brand's Storytelling.”