Lighting... the cheap way

originally posted by Craig on April 16, 2007

Preproduction is winding down. I’m just prepping all the equipment now and doing more screen tests. I knew lighting was going to be the most challenging part since I can’t buy a real set of lights. So, I have to improvise.

Since I’m shooting with a video camera with decent low-light sensitivity, I don’t need real bright lights. Plus, this movie will take place at night (though the outdoor scenes will be shot during daylight using a day-for-night trick). I’m just using 4 small aluminum work lights ($6 apiece at Wal-mart). This will give me my key, fill, and back lights, and an extra light for lighting up the background. Unfortunately, they are hard to control since they give off wide-angle harsh light. After a few test, I knew I would have to spend a little more money.

A quick trip to B&H Photo scored me some diffusion material that will be attached to the front of the lights to give the light a smoother look. No more harsh shadows. I also ordered some colored gel material to give the light a little color. That helps set the mood. I’ll use orange gels for a warmer look to the intro, but then switch to the cool blue gels for the action scene. Nothing too drastic. Just a hint of color is all you need.

I also ordered 2 cheap light stands ($19 apiece). I originally planned to just clamp the lights to furniture or wherever I wants. But as I did some tests, I realized that I would have to compromise the composition too much. The stands will help me place the lights exactly where I need them. That will save a ton of time during shooting.

All that’s left is to make some gobos, which are nothing more than patterns you put in front of a light. It can help create texture on a plain background. Since my lights don’t have holders for gobos, I’ll have to improvise again. I’ll go to Wal-Mart once again and pick up some of those aluminum cooking sheets. They normally come in a package of around 10. Simply bend them to shape and cut the patterns out. Clamp it to the light using clothespins. Instant gobo on the cheap.

Now, I just hope my lighting skills are good enough to make this film look decent. We’ll see...