Lighting Guides

The 7 Lighting Patterns Every Filmmaker Needs t...

Flat, Loop, Rembrandt, Split, Rim, Silhouette, Butterfly — the seven classic lighting patterns every filmmaker needs to master. Placement diagrams, shadow behavior, and when to use each one on set.

From Film School to Hollywood Gaffer | Chris Er...

Chris Ernst, Hollywood Gaffer Chris Ernst Gaffer · Union Since 2001 | Commercials, Promos & Sports Hype "You're getting paid for your ideas… figure out how to make it work."...

How Gaffer Jeff Murrell Lights Marvel's Biggest...

Jeff Murrell Gaffer • Marvel Blockbusters • 30+ Years “Control of light levels, color, and individual fixture output—so you can shape the mood of every scene in real time.” Credits...

How Hollywood Gaffer Michael Ambrose Lights Act...

Michael Ambrose Gaffer • Action Unit Specialist • 25+ Years “If you didn’t notice me, I did my job.” Credits include Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Black Panther, Fast &...

How Hollywood Gaffer Jim Plannette Lights Films...

Jim Plannette Gaffer • 50+ Years • Academy Class of 2018 “The best lighting is the lighting that disappears into the story.” Credits include E.T., Braveheart, Young Frankenstein, The Fisher...

How to Light an Interview: Setup, Gear Placemen...

Whether you're shooting a documentary, a corporate sit-down, or a YouTube conversation, the way you light an interview determines how professional the final product looks. This guide breaks down the...