
The reverse is also true moving one stop from f/8.0 to f/5.6 results in a halving of the light. With each additional F-stop, for example going one stop from f/1.4 to f/2.0, you create a doubling of light.

To make sense of what you have just measured you have to understand that the information you have just gathered is in F-stops, a measure of light. Then, measure the area lit by the secondary light, or fill light. Get a reading from the brightest area on the face of your subject. The process starts with you measuring the main source of light, or the key light. To measure the contrast ratio you will need a light meter. The main advantage in using and documenting a contrast ratio across shots is that it allows you to maintain the same intensity in the brightest and darkest areas of the face to keep the shots consistent throughout the project. High contrast ratios are best used in film noir or thriller type films where dark shadows add to the sense of mystery and suspense. On the other hand, a high contrast ratio like 4:1 or more creates more shadowy areas that give the scene more drama and a sense of foreboding.

#CONTRASTE LIGHTING TV#
For example, a low contrast ratio like 1:1 or 2:1 is best set for TV comedies and interviewing purposes where the subjects should be evenly lit to give a feeling of openness and enlightenment. As you watch your favorite sitcom or cinematic entertainment, pay attention to how the characters are lit.Ĭontrast ratio is important as it helps tell the story by developing a mood, be it dramatic or light-hearted. Another way to approach this is that contrast ratio is the difference in the bright areas of a scene compared to the darker shadow areas. What is a contrast ratio?Ĭontrast ratio refers to the comparison of the intensity main source of light from which shadows fall, to the light that fills in the shadow areas.

Unless you’re truly paying attention or have a trained eye, you might not notice the nuances of lighting, but the lighting is an integral part of the story and helps affect the emotions you feel as a viewer. In most cases, the elements of lighting disappear into the background. To understand contrast ratio or lighting ratio, you need to pay attention to the way your favorite TV shows and films are lit.
