How to create soft lighting
Now that we know why directors use soft lighting let’s go over how to create it for your own projects. If you’re outside, filming on an overcast day is an excellent way to capture soft lighting. With the direct sunlight obscured by clouds, the lighting becomes soft and muted. You can also soften direct sunlight by using diffusers or umbrellas to filter and redirect the hard light, creating a more flattering look for your scene.
Scrims
Special sheets of fabric called scrims are also a common tool for softening light when filming outdoors. A larger overhead scrim can provide a filter between the sunlight and your subjects. Smaller versions can bounce light to soften harsh shadows. A scrim is usually crafted from natural or artificial white silk mounted on a special frame. But if you’re working on a budget, you can also use plain white bedsheets to create the same effect. Check out this DIY scrim tutorial that you can put together for only $20!
Diffusion paper
If you’re filming inside a studio, you can also soften the effect of your studio lights with a sheet of diffusion paper. Mounting a sheet of specialized paper to the barn doors of your lights is a cheap and easy trick to soften up a harsh light. It’s also ideal if you’d like to create a more subtle effect, as the paper will only create a slight diffusion.
Softbox
Another specialized tool for softening light is the softbox. Thanks to their rectangular shape, these mimic the subtle light from an open window and can provide more control over your bounce light than a reflective umbrella. Softboxes come in varying sizes, ranging from 18 to 24″ to 48″ or even bigger. They make wonderful key, fill, and backlights that provide an overall soft glow to your scene. Every filmmaker should have at least one in their toolkit!
Paper lantern lighting
Paper lanterns are also a fantastic way to create soft, diffused light. The subtle glow they provide can create a magical effect for your scene. Plus, they’re a super cheap option for budget filmmakers! Check out how to use those here.
Don’t be afraid to play with different tools and techniques until you find the perfect soft lighting you’re looking for. Sometimes you don’t know the right look until you see it on the camera!
Practice soft lighting techniques at a Peerspace near you
Now that you know everything about soft lighting, it’s time to get out there and shoot! Luckily, you have a resource like Peerspace to easily connect you with sleek and stunning one-of-a-kind studios. Not only that, but Peerspace also has penthouses, cabins, mansions, warehouses, lounges, and other hourly rental venues to explore. It can be the easiest (and most fun!) way to shoot a production or simply practice your skills as you hone your craft.
