The Four Variables of Light

See notes on Quality of Light and Colour Temperature.

A convincing key light imitates the apparent source in all variables except for intensity, which is usually greater or falls on areas the apparent source doesn't reach:

The key light can also be used to create the desired mood:

High Key Lighting

• Key light close to the camera
• Fill light added in the shadows
• Quality often softer
• Bright areas dominate the frame

Frame enlargement from The Mean Season.
 

Low Key Lighting

• Key light farther from the camera
• Little fill light in the shadows
• Quality often harder
• Dark areas dominate the frame

Frame enlargement from The Deer Hunter.

Note: Create a dark scene by using low key lighting and controlling where the intensity of the key light falls, rather than by decreasing the intensity. See Lighting for Night Exteriors.

See also Steps for Lighting a Location.

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