Lighting for DSLR Film Shoot

R

revention

Member
This will be my first film I have shot with a DSLR camera (Canon 7D). That being said, the entire film is being shot at night and I was wondering what sort of lighting techniques I should use. Most of the locations are very lighted (downtown, international airport etc.)

Would I need to worry about an expensive lighting set because most of the individuals I have talked to who have shot a films with DSLR cameras have told me it would not be necessary as long as the location is lighted sufficiently.
 
I think the usual recommendation for situations that you have never shot... is to shoot test shots... and see what the results are. For 'night' shots, one probably is going to use a higher ISO setting, such as 400/800/1600. You should test these settings to see if you can accept the 'noise' that may be present in the image.

Unless you have all the permits for shooting in the location in order, etc. bringing 'big lights' will be problematic, so, you need to know what the location really is lightingwise, and then decide what you really need, and if you are shooting 'guerrilla' style... what you can get away with.

If you have the budget for fully permitted shoots. Then obviously big lights can be brought in, but still it is dependent on the location... so still tests are in order...
 
There are many answers to this question unfortunately.

If you want realistic location shots, then yes you'll probably be fine.

If you want hollywood quality, then you won't get it without supplemental lights.

If it were me, I'd block it out so that the main action/talking happens near areas of light and then use bounce/supplemental light to fill on the talent.
 
You might look into renting a battery powered LED package. Even in an awesome alley with a big street light and the whole downtown behind you, sometimes one nice key or rim light is what makes it look like you had a grip truck and 10-man crew...
 
revention said:
Would I need to worry about an expensive lighting set because most of the individuals I have talked to who have shot a films with DSLR cameras have told me it would not be necessary as long as the location is lighted sufficiently.
Click to expand...

Just because they're well-lit, it doesn't mean they're lit the way you'd want them to be or the way which would be appropriate for what you're shooting. Making images is an art; the specific style of lighting plays into it. Buildings aren't lit for art. They're lit so people can see.
 
Thanks for the suggestions guys. I do have a professional lighting individual who will be dealing with the lights but I am trying to get some ideas so I know what to look for.
 
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