Bounce Lighting
A soft lighting technique where light is reflected off a surface (ceiling, wall, reflector board) rather than aimed directly at the subject. Bouncing transforms a hard source into soft, diffused illumination while allowing for larger, more natural-looking light sources. This approach provides control over direction and intensity while maintaining the gentle quality essential for many scenarios.
When to Use
- Interior scenes requiring soft, natural-feeling illumination
- Low-budget productions maximizing minimal lighting equipment
- Fill light applications where soft shadow control is needed
- Documentary and run-and-gun scenarios requiring fast, flexible setups
Famous Examples
Manchester by the Sea (2016)
Naturalistic interior family scenes
Lady Bird (2017)
Bedroom and bathroom conversation scenes
The Florida Project (2017)
Motel room interiors
Related Techniques
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