LESSON 1
DEFINE BASIC LIGHTING TECHNIQUES IN THE STUDIO
TASK
Define basic lighting techniques for a television production. Define lighting,
3-point lighting, 4-point lighting, and describe the lighting equipment used in
television.
CONDITIONS
Given information and illustrations relating to studio lighting techniques.
STANDARDS
Demonstrate competency of the task skills and knowledge by correctly responding
to 70 percent of the multiple-choice test covering definitions of lighting, 3-
point lighting, 4-point lighting, and the lighting equipment used.
REFERENCES
None
Learning Event 1:
DEFINE LIGHTING, LIGHTING PRINCIPLES, TECHNICAL AND AESTHETIC REQUIREMENTS FOR
LIGHTING, 3-POINT LIGHTING, AND 4-POINT LIGHTING
1. Lighting is an art.
Clever lighting manipulates the audience and their
This would include their perception of size, shape, color, and
weight. Lighting can enhance the illusion of three dimensions. Poor lighting
can result in footage without character (boring). Good lighting is critical to
a quality television production.
2. Like the human eye, the television camera needs light in order to "see" and
function properly. Unlike the human eye, the television camera is much more
demanding as to the amount of light, the color of the light, and its relative
harshness and direction.
a. Although we may see quite well with only a flashlight as an
illuminating source or under extremely bright sunlight, the camera may not
operate correctly under these conditions.
The flashlight may not radiate
enough light for the pickup tube to give off sufficient electricity.
The
resulting television picture lacks signal strength and consequently suffers
from excess video noise, often called picture snow. Bright sunlight, on the
other hand, may be too much light for the camera to handle.
At best the
picture looks washed out; at worst, the superabundance of light can destroy the
camera pickup tube.
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