Shooting on the Go? Enhance Your Lighting with This Easy Technique

With the rise of pocket cinema cameras, cinematographers are increasingly shooting on the go in improvised circumstances. From news and short films to documentaries and feature films, minimal equipment is now required. Cameras have evolved, and audio equipment has become smaller and more efficient.

However, lighting often becomes an afterthought in these situations. Without proper lighting, the actor's face can appear flat when brought into the grading suite. Even though the exposure seemed fine on the monitor, without a bounce board or reflector, there isn't enough light for contrast.

Thankfully, there's a simple technique that can help add some digital contrast. While it won't replicate the light of a 2k Fresnel, it can provide a subtle bounce light to enhance your shot. In this article, we'll explore how to achieve this effect using Da Vinci Resolve and the circle shape.

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Working with the Circle Shape

To begin, open the power window (mask) tab and select the circle shape. Adjust the shape to reflect the actor's face by manipulating the corners, top and sides, and outer circle of the window. Position the window where light is hitting the face.

Adjust the Exposure

Next, adjust the two primary exposure properties. Lower the shadows to create contrast, even though it may seem counterproductive. Then, increase the midtones appropriately to ensure enough contrast without creating a halo effect. You can extend the outer circle to help feather the effect. Additionally, consider lowering the exposure slightly for the entire image to give the face that extra kick.

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Before and After

By digitally adding the missing illumination, you can achieve a result similar to using a bounce board. However, it's important to note that proper lighting on set is still the ideal solution. The software has its limitations, but it can be effective for correcting lighting problems in post-production. If your talent moves within the shot, you can use the tracking window to make the bounce light follow them.

Easy peasy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can this technique completely replace proper lighting on set?
    No, this technique is a post-production solution and should not replace proper lighting techniques on set. It is best used as a supplement to enhance lighting in challenging circumstances.

  • Which software can I use to apply this technique?
    The technique described in this article can be applied using Da Vinci Resolve. However, other software programs and plug-ins may offer similar features that allow you to add digital contrast to your shots.

  • Is this technique only suitable for subtle lighting adjustments?
    Yes, this technique is most effective for adding subtle light and contrast. It is not designed to replicate the light of powerful lighting equipment.

  • What other techniques can be used to correct lighting problems in post-production?
    There are various techniques that can be used to correct lighting problems in post-production, such as color grading, exposure adjustments, and adding artificial light sources. The specific technique chosen will depend on the nature of the lighting issue and the desired result.