When it comes to filming a project, beyond shot selection and composition, dynamic range is everything. For those new to filmmaking, dynamic range refers to the range between the lightest and darkest areas of your image. Think of a subject standing in a dimly lit room next to a bright window—that's where dynamic range makes all the difference.
This is one reason why high-end cinema cameras stand out: they offer more stops of dynamic range, capturing detail in both shadows and highlights without losing information.
A perfect example of dynamic range used deliberately and beautifully is Robert Eggers' The Witch. The film’s rich shadows, natural lighting, and carefully balanced highlights show how powerful dynamic range can be in creating mood and tension.
Of course, you don’t need expensive gear to create great art. But understanding how lighting and dynamic range work is essential to crafting powerful visuals.
What’s your go-to strategy for handling tricky lighting situations?
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Great advice Stephen Folker
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Jordan Smith, thanks!
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@Stephen Folker When I started working with cameras, it was the part that I studied the dynamics in depth. But over time I realized how practical it was to use the manual ring to control the nuances from dark to light. And then in editing, you could WORK the parts with the tones. It was a complex process, but great for the cameraman. I've shot a lot of scenes that go from dark to bright, and the dynamic range makes all the difference. WELL SAID MASTER !
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John January Noble You are spot on with the editing and post-production. And of course the initial process (lighting, etc) makes a world of difference in the editing room!
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Stephen Folker TRUTH...