GLOBAL LIGHTING
Between image quality and flexibility
Depending on the constraints of a shoot (time, location, crew size, and creative intent) lighting can be approached in different ways. Each method offers a different balance between visual quality, speed, and flexibility.
The goal is to choose the right approach for each production, from a fully reactive setup to a carefully crafted lighting design for every shot.
— Relying on available light and a minimal setup to stay fast, mobile, and responsive to the scene.
— Lighting the space as a whole to maintain consistency while allowing freedom of movement and multiple camera angles.
— Shaping and refining the light for each setup to maximize control, depth, and visual impact.
No lighting, “We shoot as is”
01 — Available Light “We shoot as is.”
Principle
Working exclusively with the existing ambient light, without adding or repositioning any fixtures.
Advantages
-
Extremely fast setup
-
No lighting installation required
-
Maximum freedom of movement
-
Ideal for spontaneous or fast-paced situations
Limitations
-
Results depend entirely on the existing conditions
-
Contrast and exposure can be difficult to control
-
Some areas may appear too dark or unevenly lit
-
Less visual consistency from one shot to another
Global lighting
02 — Global Lighting “Zone lighting.”
Principle
Lighting the entire space in advance so multiple angles and setups remain properly exposed without having to rebuild the lighting between shots.
Advantages
-
Strong visual consistency throughout the sequence
-
Faster shooting with minimal lighting adjustments
-
Natural and immersive results
-
Greater freedom of movement for both subject and camera
Limitations
-
Less precise than lighting each shot individually
-
Some compromises may be required to accommodate every angle
-
Requires careful planning before the shoot
Shot by shot lighting
03 — Shot-by-Shot Lighting “Commercial lighting.”
Principle
Lighting each shot individually to achieve the strongest possible visual result, with fixtures repositioned and refined for every camera angle.
Advantages
-
The most polished and cinematic result
-
Full control over light, contrast, and composition
-
Greater precision in shaping faces, backgrounds, and details
-
Allows for specific lighting effects and a stronger visual signature
Limitations
-
More time-consuming between setups
-
Requires a heavier lighting setup and more crew intervention
-
Can interrupt the natural flow of a scene
-
Less suited to spontaneous, documentary-style situations