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No matter the strength of the script, power of the camera, and star quality of the actors, your video production may be doomed without the right lighting. Consumers can tell the difference between low- and high-quality productions, and their low opinion of your commercial could turn into a negative opinion of your company and brand. Avoid making these four common lighting mistakes while preparing for your next Orlando video production:
- Trying to Use Too Much Light
Did you rent specialized lighting equipment for the day or hook up several high-powerful spotlights? Unfortunately, your honest efforts might prove overbearing on film. Some types of lighting are extremely harsh and can cause a variety of problems. Droves of ultra-powerful equipment could wash out the actors, distort the colors on set, create harsh contrasts, or encourage heavy shadows. If you plan to film in multiple locations, it can also be difficult to lug around that much equipment and try to recreate the same lighting scheme.
- Trying to Use Too Little Light
People are more likely to be guilty of trying to use too little light rather than too much. You may think that your location is bright enough, but think about how cameras operate. When you take a photo with your iPhone, for example, the colors and amount of contrast are never quite as they appear in person. You can only get close to capturing the true essence of your original object on screen by photographing it in optimal lighting conditions. Similarly, trying to film a high-quality video production in low or poor light is a recipe for disaster. The resulting shots may be discolored or grainy, making them impossible to use, for example, as part of an HD Internet commercial.
- Using the Right Amount of Light, but with Mismatched Equipment
Filming indoors poses unique benefits and challenges. On the one hand, you have a relatively controlled environment with mostly consistent lighting conditions. On the other hand, the amount of available light in your office, lobby, or conference room may not be enough for your production. However, resist the urge to walk around the building and simply grab a few extra lamps. Mixing overhead lights, spotlights, and residential-quality lamps can result in odd colors or uneven patches of light. You need top-quality equipment managed by a professional camera crew to ensure your light is clean, pure, and consistent across the set.
- Not Using Reflectors, Filters, or Light Diffusers
Speaking of equipment, did you know that there is more to lighting a set than just having a few spotlights? Different types of bulbs and equipment produce different results, and filters can help correct or customize your lighting options. Plus, there are a huge variety of light reflectors and diffusers that help control and direct light in both studio and outdoor situations. Stay tuned to the NG Production Films blog and Facebook page, because we will discuss all types of reflectors in an upcoming post.
In the meantime, do not let your production be ruined by bad lighting. Our Orlando video production company, NG Production Films, uses top-quality equipment managed by expert filmmakers. We have over 15 years of experience managing lighting in all types of conditions, including corporate settings, casual outdoor shoots, and crowded conventions. Call us today at (877) 203-2895 for a free consultation, or fill out our online contact form for a prompt reply.
