Practical Lighting
Practical Lighting refers to real, visible light sources that appear within a film scene, like table lamps, window light, or street lights. Unlike studio lights that are hidden from the camera, practical lights are part of the scene itself. Think of a night scene where a character turns on a bedside lamp - that lamp is practical lighting. Film crews use this technique to make scenes look more natural and believable, as opposed to obviously artificial studio lighting. It's a fundamental skill in filmmaking that combines both technical knowledge and artistic creativity.
Examples in Resumes
Designed Practical Lighting setups for over 30 independent film productions
Integrated Practical Light sources with traditional film lighting for authentic scene ambiance
Managed Practical Lighting inventory and placement for multiple award-winning short films
Typical job title: "Lighting Technicians"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Lighting Technicians
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Industry Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you plan practical lighting for a complex night scene with multiple rooms?
Expected Answer: A senior lighting professional should discuss pre-planning, coordination with art department for fixture selection, power management, and how to balance practical lights with other lighting sources while maintaining natural look and proper exposure.
Q: How do you handle practical lighting challenges in period pieces?
Expected Answer: Should explain researching historical accuracy of fixtures, working with production design, modifying modern fixtures to appear period-appropriate, and maintaining consistent light levels while using period-appropriate sources.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you control intensity of practical lights for different camera settings?
Expected Answer: Should discuss using dimmers, different wattage bulbs, diffusion techniques, and working with the cinematographer to achieve desired exposure while maintaining natural appearance.
Q: What safety considerations do you take into account when setting up practical lighting?
Expected Answer: Should mention checking electrical loads, proper cable management, heat management, backup options, and coordination with set decoration and art department.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are common types of practical lights used on set?
Expected Answer: Should be able to list basic practical sources like table lamps, wall sconces, car headlights, and discuss basic setup and safety procedures.
Q: How do you prep practical lights before a shoot?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic preparation steps like testing bulbs, checking wattage, ensuring proper power supply, and basic troubleshooting.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic practical light setup and maintenance
- Understanding of common light fixtures
- Basic electrical safety
- Equipment handling and organization
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex practical lighting setups
- Working with various light temperatures
- Problem-solving lighting challenges
- Coordinating with other departments
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced lighting design
- Budget management
- Team supervision
- Period-appropriate lighting expertise
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic electrical safety
- Lack of experience with different types of practical light sources
- Poor understanding of coordination with other departments
- No experience with proper equipment handling and maintenance
Related Terms
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