Implementation - Importance of lighting

 In my previous planning post, I explained that I wanted to experiment with chiaroscuro lighting using a single light source and a Lego figure against a black background. My aim was to test how different lighting angles would affect the mood and whether this technique would be effective in creating a thriller feeling in our film opening. 

# 1. Top lighting

This is a picture I took of Lego's with lighting from above

When placing the light source directly above the figure, the shadows fell underneath the chin and slightly under the facial features. While this did create some depth, the face remained mostly visible and evenly lit. The effect was slightly dramatic but not strongly threatening. The top lighting created dimension, but it did not change any major facial features, keeping the Lego looking friendly rather than intimidating. 

Note : This showed me top lighting can create shadow, but may not be intense enough to communicate “danger” within my thriller. 

# 2. Front lighting

This is a picture I took of Lego's with lighting from the front

When the light source was placed directly in front of the figure, the shadows were significantly reduced. The Lego appeared flat and more two-dimensional. Because the entire face and torso were evenly illuminated, there was little contrast between light and dark areas. The lighting made the Lego look neutral and almost cheerful. In terms of our genre, this would not be effective for our thriller because it removes the mystery. The lack of shadow means there is nothing hidden from the audience, reducing the tension. 

# 3. Side Lighting

This is a picture I took of Lego's with lighting from the side

The side lighting created the strongest contrast. One half of the figures face was illuminated, while the other half was partially covered in shadow. The immediately created a more dramatic and visually striking image. The division between lighting and dark emphasizes mystery and could represent duality. Perfectly describing one of the characters in our film, Michael. At first, he appears kind and harmless during the park scene, but later reveals a darker intention when he drugs Lena. Using side lighting in the car scene could visually reinforce this dual natural by partially hiding his face. 

Application to the film opening

From my results, I learned that side lighting is the most effective techniques for creating tension and unease. In our film opening, this will be particularly useful in the park scene, when foreshadowing danger. As well as the car scene before Lena passes out. 

My group and I also plan to use low lighting in the car so Michael's face in not fully visible, positioning the audience to feel uncertain about him even before the final reveal. While Lena is meant to be slightly more illuminated because of her visibility, emphasizing vulnerability.