LightingHigh-key and low-key

High-key

^{News programmes, TV sitcoms and children’s shows use a High Key lighting style.}

This style typically uses a Three Point Lighting set-up but with a very high amount of key light.

By keeping the key light to fill light ratio so high, this style results in a bright and even image with very little in the way of shadows.

Low-key

Low-key lighting is the opposite of high-key lighting.

^{Low key lighting typically uses just one key light, though sometimes some fill light may be used.}

Without the fill light to balance, this approach creates deeper, darker shadows.

This moody looking lighting style is often used for horror films and crime dramas.

Available light

When we talk about shooting using available light, we mean filming using whatever natural daylight is present.

In some cases, using available light might be the best approach.

If you are telling a story set in the real world and about a real life issue, using a simple available lighting style might help keep your film grounded.

If you choose the right time of day and the right weather, there’s no reason not to shoot an outdoors scene using available light.

If you want to shoot interior scenes using available light you may have to be more careful.

^{If you plan to use available light indoors, the room or building you use will have to be bright and airy with lots of windows.}

If shooting using available light, make sure you set the white balance and exposure correctly on the camera.