Available Light – Fad or Fabulous?

For some people movie making is bound by strict rules and guidelines; for others experimentation is the order of the day.

There are many occasions when it is wise to stay within the boundaries of convention, yet there are others where the more daring approach may bring better results.

One of the buzz-words in movie making of late is ‘available light’, a phrase that fills some directors of photography with dread, yet leaves others excited at the prospect.

Let’s talk about the possible advantages, and otherwise, of shooting with available light.

A Natural Approach
Bathing a scene in bright, artificial lights is a tricky business, and can often result in a bright, artificial scene. This is particularly true where the scene is outdoors. Why create artificial levels of light in an outdoor setting when you have natural light all around you?

There are many benefits to shooting external scenes using the natural light. We may begin with the natural element – it is infinitely more ‘real’ to use the light that is present than to create more light artificially. The problem may come with low light situations, yet the modern digital camera is becoming ever-more light sensitive and responsive, allowing for greater use of natural light situations.

Another benefit is saving time; you do not have to wait for complex light systems to be rigged up, and tested. Simply find the right time of day, and the right level and type of light, and run with it. Granted, it’s a risky business, but what have you to lose other than a possibly unsuccessful shoot that can be done again?

The third major benefit is that of cost: how much are you saving by not having to pay for expensive lighting systems? It’s a choice that many a director might consider, especially those on a limited budget.

Problems Indoors
While available light might well be an option for outdoor scenes it is thought by many to be a no-no when it comes to shooting indoors. The jury is out on this one, but it is still possible to use the available light for indoor scenes if you consider the options carefully.

Buildings will have lights within, so you could use these to your advantage. By placing reflectors at certain points you can even direct light from overhead lighting to create various effects. For an atmospheric effect some directors have utilised sunlight from a window, but it is in low light situations that problems occur.

While it may look fine to shoot in the half-light of an evening, the result on screen might be less than impressive and, depending on the equipment used, the result could be a murky image that is unwatchable. Be careful when choosing to use available light indoors, but be adventurous too, and try to challenge the norm.

There is much to be said for challenging the set rules of film-making and taking a different route, but it has to work for it to be worthwhile. Try your ideas before committing and you may find you have a successful recipe on hand.