Phone cameras have small sensors. In good light they look excellent; in poor light the picture becomes grainy, dull and soft. Lighting appears in some Ghanaian content adverts because it is one of the clearest signs of quality. The good news is that light from the sun is free, and you can control it with simple things.
Where is the light coming from?
Before you film, look at the light the way the camera does. Ask:
- Is it hard or soft? Direct sun at midday is hard: it makes dark shadows under eyes and noses and makes people squint. Light in shade, on a cloudy day, or through a window is soft and flattering.
- Which direction? Light on the face from the front or slightly to the side usually looks best. Light from directly above is unflattering. Light from behind the subject, such as a bright window or sky, turns faces into dark shapes.
Free and cheap ways to get good light
- Face a window. Put your subject facing a window, with you between them and the window or just to the side. This is one of the best lights available anywhere, and it is free.
- Use open shade. Outdoors, move into the shade of a tree or building where the subject still faces bright open sky. Faces become even and soft.
- Film at kinder times. Early morning and late afternoon light is softer and warmer than midday.