BLOG QUESTION ADV: SUSPENSE LIGHTING TUTORIAL

What three key techniques do these filmmakers use to create tension with their lighting in this scene? How did they use lighting effectively?

One technique that the filmmakers use is motivated lighting. In this scene, the lighting is motivated by the pool (bounces light from below). However, not all lights have to be motivated in a horror movie. Lighting imperfections are more obvious on close-ups, having materials to help diffuse lighting will help. Adding foreground elements creates an effect of someone being watched, building suspense. Secondly, Black wrap can be used to shape light, having characters silhoutted leaves more to the imagine, giving a more ominous effect. Using fog can add to the atmosphere of your film, adding mystery.