lighting

[Bouncing Account needs new email address]

[michael B demille] “I’m new to video; we’re using Canon GL2 cameras. What should we use for “on camera” lighting?”

For what purpose?

[Doug Graham]

Matte’s right…what lighting you require depends on what you’re planning to do. In fact, for a great many purposes, an on-camera light is not the best solution.

I recommend Jon Cooksey’s “Digital Lighting Magic” instructional DVDs, available from Elite Video. They’ll teach you a lot about OFF camera lighting.

The on-camera light is a compromise…it’s quick, it’s portable, it doesn’t require anyone else to help set up…but it gives a “flat” lit appearance to people, can make them squint, and casts unfortunate shadows. For most purposes, a 25 to 50 watt light, with some sort of diffusion to soften the glare, will do. A dimmer is a very useful option, and some lights have one built in. You’ll also need a power source…a battery pouch or belt.

Regards,
Doug Graham