Here's how you can tackle complex lighting problems in Video Production.

Mastering complex lighting in video production starts with understanding the basics. Key lighting principles include the three-point lighting setup: key light, fill light, and back light to add depth. Be aware of color temperature: daylight is cooler and bluer, while tungsten lights are warmer and more orange. Mixing these without correction gels or proper white balance can result in unnatural looks.

The basics of lighting are pretty simple, and if you master them, you'll be avble to handle 99% of filming situations. The only principle you need to grasp is the three-point lighting setup: this is made up of key light (lighting the main subject), fill light (filling in the shadows on the subject), and back light (lighting up the back of the subject) ALWAYS start with just the key light, as it might be enough, then add other lights if needed, starting with the fill light (if there's too much shadow) then the back light. Remember, more lights can create more shadows and potential problems, so if you just need one light, then stick to it!

You can creatively mix daylight (cooler light) and indoor or tungsten (warmer light). Cool light in the background and a motivated warm light on the subject can add a contrast and separate the subject from their background. But before you play around with mixed lights, know the basics.

In video production, tackling complex lighting problems requires strategic use of tools. Outdoors or near large windows, natural light can be unpredictable. Diffusers soften harsh sunlight and eliminate shadows, while reflectors redirect light to fill dark areas. For changing light conditions, like clouds, maintain consistency by waiting for the right moment to shoot or using neutral density filters to reduce light intensity.

Use reflectors, and diffusers to manipulate natural light, to ensure consistent and balanced lighting in outdoor scenes. Make sure to shoot around the golden hour.

In video production, indoor lighting challenges often include mixed color temperatures and shadows. Use blackout curtains or flags to control light spill and direct artificial light precisely. Balancing light temperatures with ambient light is crucial; if mismatched, embrace contrast creatively in your scene.

You might know about the painter Rembrandt, there's also a lighting technique named after him: Rembrandt lighting. This technique is used for portrait photography with one main light (by placing the light at about 45 degrees off-axis from the subject's nose at eye level) and a reflector on the opposite side. The light is positioned to the side of the subject, aiming to create a triangle of light on the subject's face on the opposite side of the light source.

In video production, tackling complex lighting involves both on-set techniques and post-production adjustments. On set, strive for balanced lighting to minimize issues later. In post-production, leverage color grading tools to correct imbalances, adjust exposure, contrast, and color temperature. Shooting in log or flat profiles provides flexibility for refining shadows and highlights. Aim for quality on set to reduce post-work, ensuring a smoother production process overall.

In my experience as an editor, I always cringe anytime I hear "Fix it in post." It's always best to get the lighting as close to perfect as possible during the shoot to minimize post-production work. Software tools are incredibly powerful, but to consistently win in post, ensure you have solid motivations from production design during production. This could be a lamp, a window or street signs in your frame. Shooting in RAW or LOG profiles provides great flexibility for manipulating your HSL [Hue, Saturation, Luminance]

To tackle complex lighting problems in video production effectively, prioritize both skill/knowledge and the right tools. Invest in quality lights with adjustable color temperatures and intensities for versatility. Use light modifiers like softboxes, grids, and barn doors to control and shape light precisely. Opt for budget-friendly options that still enhance your lighting setup effectively.