Cameras perceive light differently from our eyes, but by learning to create, modify, and control light —you can take your images to the next level. Cameras need more light to produce a quality image than you might imagine and this course will teach you the nuances of light and shadow so you can properly plan your next shoot.

The biggest favor you can do for yourself is to prepare and plan properly. Through hands-on exercises, this workshop will introduce students to professional lighting techniques and equipment specific to video and film production.

Students will examine traditional cinematic lighting values and how they can be applied to their video work without hiring the gaffer with a grip truck while working with an array of industry professional gear in-house. We also offer students real-life tips and tricks for low-budget lighting in the field and inexpensive lighting equipment that you can buy at a hardware store so that your video can look its best.

Topics covered include: 

• Lighting Vocabulary: what is what? 

• Differences between various cameras and how they capture and manipulate light 

• Quality of light and creating depth

• Lighting for different styles and situations 

• Working with natural light 

• 3 point lighting with various lighting kits

• Simple and small footprint for simple and small productions

This course is designed for students of all levels. Whether you need a refresher because it’s been a while or you’re brand new to film/video. All gear provided to learn hands-on.

This class is in-person at Austin School of Film and will take place in our classroom studio hybrid.