The Use of Natural and Artificial Light on Character Modelling and Character Relationships, Taking Days of Heaven and Whisper as Examples

Abstract

Light plays a very important role in film and television, especially in terms of its impact on character shaping and relationship construction. This paper uses light as a starting point to analyse the effect of natural and artificial light on the portrayal of the characters taking the films Days of Heaven and Whiplash as examples, respectively. Furthermore, it compares the similarities and differences between natural light and artificial light in character modelling and proposes some suggestions on light modelling for practical shooting. The most important role of both natural and artificial light is to illuminate people. As natural light is scattered, it is mostly used as a base to restore a realistic and natural state of life. However, regarding natural light, special moments such as magical hours can be used to create a warm and ambiguous atmosphere. It is also possible to make use of existing shades to create rich light effects. Artificial light is very controllable and can be adjusted in terms of direction, colour temperature, softness, and texture to give different visual effects. The same person can be portrayed in different ways under different lighting.