BLOG QUESTION ADV: PRACTICAL LIGHTS

What is a practical light? How is it used differently than regular film production lights? What is Bradford's advice in using them for film?

A practical light is a light source that fits naturally into the set design of the scene. An example of a practical would be a lamp shade. It is different from regular production lights as it blends in with the mise en scene. It gives visual texture to the scene and it gives you more freedom to shoot from different angles, and it can save you space on smaller sets. Sometimes you need extra light to support practical lights (temp/intensity). Bradford also highlights the importance of blacking out the background of some shots to bring more attention to your subject (e.g. if a subject is standing in a door way), and he explains the importance of using shadows to shape your scene.