Lighting: Still Image Analysis

Questions:

1. Identify examples of high and low-key lighting.
2. Say which depict top, back or under lighting.
3. What effects are created by the lighting in each image?   

                                                                                

This is an example of low-key lighting applied to convey a contrast between light and dark. The use of chiaroscuro gives connotations of mystery and secrecy as the character is mostly shadowed.Furthermore, back lighting is used to create a silhouette indicating the character to be enigmatic as they are placed more in the shadowed area.         

This is also an example of low key lighting as the woman is mostly shadowed in the dark, therefore providing a sense of mystery. This contrasts with the light projected by the key light which is applied to create an enigmatic effect. Top lighting is used to accentuate the features of the character and thus reveals her facial expressions, creating a sense of danger.

This is an example of high key lighting as it is applied to convey a sense of realism meaning that it makes the lighting more realistic to make it look like natural lighting. Filter lights are additionally used in the background to soften any shadows thus making it seem more authentic. Even though shadows beneath the chin still show the contrast between light and dark is not obvious. This shadow may be used to promote the characters personality to be seen as a tough and powerful man which is also projected by his facial expressions through the high key lighting.  

                                      

In this example low key lighting is used as chiaroscuro is used by creating shadows to convey this person to be quite intimidating and dangerous.The fact that the shadows overtake half his face implies a sense of enigma within this character . Top lighting is applied on his shoulders and half his face revealing part of his features and creates the impression that this person hold high authority and is quite fearless.    

  

                                          

In this example key lighting and back lighting are used to create a silhouette of the character and the shadow effect behind the terrified women. The clear effect of the shadow creates an impression that this character is afraid and held hostage. The high key lighting used shown by the sense of realism shows the character is frightened and in trouble.

           

In this example high key lighting is used to makes the scene appear more realistic by portraying the weather to be sunny outside. The fact that the lighting is coming from the blinds and is reflected on the characters shows how they created a sense of realism. This shows pathetic fallacy as the weather is sunny which connotes happiness thus relating to the mood of both the characters.