Friday 2 March 2012

Day 67 Friday 2nd March 2012 Lighting Workshop 'Film Noir'

Friday 2nd March 2012 Lighting Workshop 'Film Noir to Fairytale'

The importance of backing up work (in at least two places) was again highlighted, prior to a reminder about digital aspects we covered previously. A slide on digital sensor sizes again highlighted the size and power of the sensor within the HD1.

Moving on we logged into 'Phocus' on the macs and went through curves, adding points for shadow, mid tone and highlights. Seeing how an 'S curve' increases contrast (just as ISO in film increases contrast as you go down the rage 400-100 etc)

JS explained how 'Photoshop' can create 'posterization', something we should avoid.  (http://www.cambridgeincolour.com/tutorials/posterization.htm)


We discussed what defined 'Film Noir' and concluded that the following components were deemed as key elements within the genre:

B&W (mostly but not always)
Low key lighting
Dramatic use of shadow and lighting position
Close ups
The Hero and Anti Hero
The Femme Fatale
1940's 1950's Crime Thriller/Detective Story (frequently but not always)
Dark/moody
Psychological aspects (such as oppressive, bleak, cynical or pessimistic aspects or the use of disillusionment)

Following on from this we were set a task to try and create a 'Film Noir' lighting effect using the following:
x2 8x4 boards
x1 'Arri' 1k
x1 'Arri' 650w
x1'Arri' 300w
As usual we took the appropriate equipment from stores: Power drill/with screwdriver 'bit' attached, screws (self tapping), Gloves, spirit level, extension leads followed by the Hassleblad camera and associated parts (FW400 lead, link cable, image bank, quick release, block and tripod bush)
Simple set prior to having the lights and flags added.





Films to study for future reference included:
In the Mood for Love (Wong-Kar-Wai)
The Man Who Wasn't There
The Third Man

Bladerunner was mentioned and I've seen this film several times, and i also thought about the recent(ish) film 'The Good German' which I own..

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