The Basics of Lighting for Film Noir

Learn the basics of three point lighting and some of the tools for shooting Film Noir so you can start to analyse the look of films shot in this unique style. Then apply your knowledge to making your very own film noir.

If you have any further questions be sure to check out our questions page on Filmmaker IQ:

[SharpDesign]

You made this so entertaining, I have a backstory in my mind of this guy being kidnapped just so lighting can be tested on him...lol

[ChrisArtmann]

This is a really good and informative video. Great job!

[NoraS-K]

This helped me so much in my college film class. I got an A 😭

[MrCartierG]

I learn so much from your channel, I'm going to start telling people that you're my film school instructor. 😐

[happyfoxproductions]

You are awesome, very informative, and easy to understand. Will definitely use these techniques in some of my own productions! Thanks!

[ewilkinsusmc]

THIS IS AMAZINGLY INSIGHTFUL. I AM MAKING SEVERAL MOVIES INSPIRED FROM FILM NOIR AND WITH SOME OF THE BIGGEST NAMES IN THE GAME... THIS WAS SO SO INSIGHTFUL. THANK YOU FOR SHARING THIS. I AM A HUGE "LOW KEY LIGHTING" ADVOCATE AND FILM NOIR CINEPHILE!! YOU ROCK!!! THANKS FOR SHARING.

[glenstrashcan]

I needed to do a presentation of lighting in film noir, you saved my life, thank you so much!

[Lanternamagika]

Wow, kudos from Italy for the perfect pronunciation of chiaroscuro! [And for all those great videos of yours, of course ...]

[Themanintheredcoat]

These guys are the real deal. I'd love it if you did more videos exploring lighting

[benaycock]

This is by far the best video I’ve seen on the subject! Thank you!

[Tyler-hfuc]

Great talk. I actually own Painting With Light by Alton. For me, The Big Combo will always be the epitome of film noir. Recent film noir suggestion is Dark City. That is an incredibly great film noir with a sci-fi kick.

[FilmmakerIQ]

Yes - I would recommend the black foil if you can buy it (you may need to order it). As far as wattage - it depends on how much light you need. The higher the wattage, the brighter the bulb and the more heat it creates. I generally keep some low wattage bulbs (40w) a couple medium wattage (100w) and a few high wattage (150-200w) for variety.

[sparkybluefox]

Great video on three point Very to the point!

Bravo!

[davidowichawe]

A year of cinematography school, or a couple of comprehensive visits to this channel.

[rlbrett]

Very nice, creative and humorous way to present this genre of photography and cinematography.

[smilepleasephotostudio]

Endless knowledge in his each n every video. Thank you.

[DIYCameraGuy]

Great glimpse into Noir lighting, Thanks for posting.

[alexflanagan]

Very nice. Love the Noir look, thanks for the lesson!

[stefanhansen]

By far the best introduction to noir lightning! Thanks!

[JohnNewtoneu]

That was a great vid on Film noir lighting thanks very much !