Film Lighting Techniques - Creating Meaning Through Light in Moving Image Media

A focused 10-slide PowerPoint presentation exploring how lighting techniques create meaning and emotional impact in film and television. This resource teaches students to analyse and understand the symbolic and narrative functions of lighting in moving image media.

The presentation covers:

• How lighting directs audience attention to important narrative elements
• Character lighting and how it reflects the protagonist’s perception of others
• Lighting as foreshadowing - using light and shadow to hint at character traits and plot developments
• Emotional impact of lighting: soft light vs hard light and their emotional associations
• Colour psychology in lighting and its emotional significance
• Moving lights - how speed and movement convey meaning (chaos, calm, danger, etc.)
• Point of view through lighting - how light levels reflect character perspective and emotional state
• Interactive lighting placement simulation activity (includes link to practical tool)

Clear learning goals and success criteria are provided at the start. The resource includes visual examples throughout and concludes with a hands-on digital activity where students can experiment with different lighting setups.

Ideal for Media Studies, Film Studies, or Visual Arts classes teaching cinematography and film language. Suitable for secondary students (Years 9-12) analysing moving image texts or developing practical filmmaking skills. Perfect for pairing with film analysis activities or pre-production planning for student film projects.