How not to overexpose?

[deckardScott1980]

Im very much into a dark atomospheric look ala David Fincher. Where there is light, but there is a lot of shadow and darkness. I know its better to get a bright image and then darken it in post. You keep away from grain while still retaining the quality and rich colors. But if its too bright then some of the light seems to overexposed. What is the best way to get a nice realisitc dark look. Should i play around with the iris? Get things bright but not to bright? any suggestions would help?

 

[khmuse]

What you are describing is a low key lighting design. Its all about the ratios used to light your scene. If you put 4 stops between your overall fill and your highlights, you will achieve your desired look. As for not overexposing the highlights, this can be accomplished by a number of methods, each having its effect on the scenes overall look.

Having the right equipment (both lighting instruments and grip) will really aid in the process. This type of lighting design takes experience to achieve in a realistic manner, particularly if you want to keep the look motivated.