Cinematic Lighting on a Budget: 3 Easy Setups

Main light: Smallrig RC 120B Bi-Color COB - amzn.to/3QwDqxo
Smallrig RC 120D (daylight color only version) - amzn.to/3nmPTGx
Cinematic lighting for a film can be done on a small budget! With one low-cost, high-value workhorse light like this Smallrig RC 120B, some cheap lighting accessories, and common household items, you can create a ton of different looks to level-up your cinematography.
Here's the other lighting gear in this video:
Amazon light stands - amzn.to/3u1HEDP
On-Camera LED - amzn.to/3Fezn42
LED Light panel - amzn.to/3OkjJHC
Light panel softbox - amzn.to/3FHUnBx
Reflector - amzn.to/3OAnmc4
Fog machine - amzn.to/3xZVHei
Flexible arm phone mount - amzn.to/3NtnABa
Gaffer tape - amzn.to/3OAneJC
Blackwrap - amzn.to/3nerD9A
Clamps - amzn.to/3br332C
CTO (orange) & CTB (blue) lighting gels - amzn.to/3blUIND
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My current filmmaking gear:
Main Camera/Lens - amzn.to/2QYkb6a
B-roll Camera - amzn.to/3q27OEq
Camera Monitor/Recorder - amzn.to/33ruCBB
Lights: amzn.to/3QwDqxo
Editing Laptop - amzn.to/3JnE8t7
Data Storage - amzn.to/3etQClO
Tripod - bhpho.to/43975mD
Microphone - amzn.to/3evKfhJ
Sound Recorder - amzn.to/3AdVuWu
Lighting - amzn.to/3QwDqxo
My studio setup- kit.co/kentlamm
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00:00 Intro
00:40 My Gear
01:35 Smallrig RC 120B Review
2:54 Lighting Setup 1
06:00 Lighting Setup 2
07:45 Lighting Setup 3
About me:
I've been making short films for 20 years, starting at age 11. I directed my first feature film, Bad is Bad, in 2010. Made for only $6,000, the film went on to reach over 7 million views and garner critical acclaim. More recently, my short film, Will "The Machine", screened and won awards at film festivals around the world. Released online in 2019, it reached over 1 million views in just a month. I also work as a video editor, cutting ads for clients such as Apple, Netflix, and Beats by Dre.
DISCLAIMER: Links in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product with the links that I provide, I may receive a small commission at no additional charge to you.

[@donhendricks3190]

You demonstrate an unspoken truth: real filmmaking is problem solving at its finest. Know your gear and how to use it. And, brother, YOU KNOW! Thanks for being real. Love your channel!

[@WilliamTeller]

Ditto!

[@Zharkan16]

@@WilliamTeller Pikachu!

[@framespro]

Well said 👏

[@theneutralgroundpodcast]

The most fascinating part of this was listening to you narrate your thoughts in real time regarding the problems and what you can do about them. I really learned a lot. Thanks.

[@kashyew]

I love this! Most KZbinrs will try to flex and recommend expensive lighting options. But you show how to be resourceful and use what you have, only buying limited budget - but good - options.

[@petrolpoodle6617]

I am shocked and irritated that KZbin has only just suggested your channel to me. Such a refreshing change and the cliches of KZbin and yet also such unique content! Absolutely love this and your editor's freelancing FAQs. Can't wait to watch more!

[@northcoaststudios]

For the kitchen sink set-up, put your COB light outside as a key light. This way the movement of the sun is a "non-issue" as you have total control over that, and you also control the brightness of the light on you coming through the window. I've been doing lighting this way on the past few projects I worked on and it is incredibly realistic and very easily controlled. From now on I will always provide my own "sunshine" coming into a room scene anytime there are windows.

[@LivinSalty]

The vision that you have when creating these lighting setups blows me away! when you were setting the scene for the last shot in the dark I was kinda wondering how all of that blue would look natural and make sense. Then I saw the end result and was shocked. Thank you for inspiring me

[@FrictionMakesFire]

Your stuff always seems to hit at just the right time. We've been looking for a powerful light we could use on our next film. This could be the perfect one. Awesome video, appreciate it.

[@noah_films]

I recently found this channel while looking for some decent audio gear for my first short film. You're a very helpful and knowledgeable filmmaker and what distinguishes you from the rest of the filmmakers on this platform is not the fact that you use cheaper or less expensive gear, but that you make the most of whatever you have laying around to truly enhance the shot, increase the quality, or solve a problem you have. I have not been truly inspired by someone in a long time but you are truly helpful, entertaining, and seem to be a very honest and passionate filmmaker.

[@iSpike]

Really dig all the effort you go into the making of this & all your other videos. Thank You 👍🏻

[@katie_shah]

this was so cool, being able to see you work through each of the set ups and then seeing the final results. keep it up!

[@micklivi92]

I love how you compare between no light and light, really shows the importance of lighting!

[@slhtheone]

The way you explain the set up and reasoning behind each move is so clear. I found this extremely helpful. Thank you.

[@vimalneha]

Man, you have shown the best information with examples. It will help me a lot. Thanks for your generosity.

[@chris-abaya]

I love your charisma, fun and attitude in your videos. You're not cinema snobbish. Great job.

[@Jurassicparkatmospheres]

Came across your year old video and saw one of your Q and A sessions. This is a great channel and exactly what I need because I’m going into freelance videography and editing too. Excited that this channel is taking off for you!

[@blackswanmotion]

Love the real time problem solving approach. Gave me the feeling like I was standing there observing. Great job. Cheers.

[@JoeDavisMusic]

100% MY FAVOURITE channel on KZbin right now.

[@WhySteve]

I actually liked the low key look you had with the softbox on the most. Also because the purple added some more vibe to the image almost as if you had a blue to orange gradient happening and your face is the sweet soft love child of the colors in the image.

[@nicolasclarke]

I was about to start doing some research for a new lighting rig and I saw you uploaded this video! Absolutely perfect timing, I will definitely be buying it

[@alecmartinez9317]

This was a godsend. First, you're very naturally charming-- this doesn't feel overwrought or hammed up like many of these kinds of channels. And wow do you really walk your talk- I so appreciated that you did not filter your process. Often, beginner cinematographers feel so intimidated by the inaccessibility of this art. You're doing something important and special here. Also I lost it when you taped the leaf to your window.

[@ScareTimeStudios]

Bro, You give me hope! I’m a one man crew, basically, and I’m teaching myself everything outside of the things I’m good at- screenwriting, directing and framing my films. Audio was fairly easy to pick up, using editing software hasn’t been a chore (color grading included) but lighting I’ve had ZERO experience with setting up proper lighting with lights, reflectors, mirrors and other tools. This light looks great and versatile, but the biggest value is your knowledge of setting up the right lighting! Audiences only see what’s in frame, what we want them to see, but 99% of what matters to a good shot or take is what goes on outside the frame! Bro, you’re making me believe more and more with each tutorial that I will make my upcoming feature length film look great! Appreciate it!

[@carliesznerch]

i love everything about this video!!! so informative and i love that you showed the trail and error process of lighting setup. thank you for this!

[@mashadowsonly1]

This video is class! you really demonstrate how to tackle lighinig issues with simple household items. Love it ❤

[@ecellis9651]

Probably one of the best lighting videos I've watched as a beginner. Thanks

[@lihtan]

One of my go-tos for budget lighting is battery operated work lights. The Milwaukee M18 lights have really good color rendering, and very even light distribution (with a warm color temperature). They were my first choice when I was doing painting work, because I could easily make out subtle differences in color. I find that they also work well in a pinch for doing photography or filmmaking.

[@LavigneFTW]

You put so much effort into your videos. Thank you.

[@billg3356]

Dude, your videos are awesome, easy to follow and understand. Thanks for taking the time to make them. Subscribed!

[@dakipro]

Just wanted to let you know i really enjoy your videos, and thank you for making them!

[@pampazapp4169]

Looking forward for next week!!

[@thewizeguide9128]

I’m on an even lower budget for some these items but this video has helped massively. Thanks mate.

[@kuramobay2445]

For the night setup, I think I would use the smallrig outside with the blue gel as moonlight and a narrow gap in the curtains to create a diagonal shaft. I would keep the warm background light and place a small practical lamp with some diffusion on the desk. I would then use a carefully placed book or magazine to bounce light from the lamp onto your face at an angle that speaks to your mood. Finally, I would add a little haze to give shape to the moonlight and add atmosphere.

[@borysotawa-kanaprywatny1512]

We love your work! You really help us. 😊 Thank you for that 🙏

[@Newt211]

Playing around with the lighting effects, immediate thumbs up.

[@ToTheMaxWorld]

One of the best channels in my opinion.

[@MartinKPettersson]

Great video as always! I've found so much inspiration from your channel. Thank you!

[@kenthe7210]

This was such a fantastic and fun to watch video. You practically MacGyvered that lighting. This was even better than Camera Girl Helena's video on lighting on a tight budget.

[@RockWILK]

Awesome video. Thanks for sharing.

[@ColorfieldMedia]

This was awesome. Really good stuff.

[@androidplus.1]

Such cool stuff 🎉

[@chinitopinoy1726]

Thanks for the lighting tips and setup man!

[@theindiefilmdude]

Absolutely LOVE DIY!

[@DavidMacchiaW]

I am always playing with lighting on projects. Thanks for the tips. BTW, white reusable disposable towels from the Dollar Tree make great soft diffusers in a small areas.

[@LearnAsUGrow501]

120 Fill light,a Monan LED light, a mirror and Grass. Bro! Well, I learn a lot from you and I just Purchased an entry level a5000 camera I did a small film. Not live yet but It was a game changer but i need to master the light. Namaste Dave Ross

[@facuuaf]

Pro tip: it's always, ALWAYS, cheaper to just ND the windows/doors if the shot doesn't require someone to open or go through them. NDing the camera forces you to add a ton of unnecessary light

[@AlexAbsolute]

awesome video, super useful tips!

[@gabrielchaparrotalkscrypto]

absolutely Great Content. I love your music choice man. tells the story so well

[@stroutvideo]

I love your content. So refreshing. You had me rolling with the sublte humor!

[@brextenbezzant7763]

Kinda found you just this week, your work is superbly inspiring and knowledgeable, thank you!

[@theindependentcinema]

Ditto

[@ahmedkamal7095]

0:35 the cat : oh look an empty box i wonder what it feels like inside "immediately jumps into it"

[@gssg2010]

I didn't know SmallRig did cobs... Made my day!

[@guirireyes]

That’s great brother !

[@lucinematic]

So helpful, thank you! Glad I found your channel

[@louqmanbadr1733]

I love your your tips. Thanks bro

[@ShamellAntone]

dope vid... odee helpful. thanks!

[@oniriscope]

At 2:54 I was definitely sold on the smallrig light haha! I seriously really enjoyed this episode, Great job done here man.

[@CuppingHustlers]

So smart - so smart!

[@vamboo8918]

Nice studio tour 👍

[@FilomenaJackStudio]

"On the cheap" means different things to different people ;) lol

[@cofiecoffcoff4287]

awesome video!

[@jefflep1]

Freaking awesome! Whatever it takes to get it right!

[@_Theoprime]

Very interesting. I love it

[@DanielTuriman]

Very hard work to tdo this alone, i love your job and setting, thanks

[@epicuserxd]

Your videos have improved recently nice edit

[@TeraFav]

Loved it You're a great teacher ❤️

[@franciscoramos6602]

beautifully amazing video 🙏 thank you

[@ChessDownUnder]

I’d love to see more videos of achieving cool scenes on a very tight budget!

[@WilliamTeller]

Indispensable content! Thank you

[@StandardStoryCo]

Thank YOU!

[@ArcherFish]

great stuff

[@intrinsiccinema7374]

great and simple and thank you for the light info great value in price also

[@fahmimuhammad3279]

Amazing!

[@jbchannel88]

This channel is fantastic!

[@Varosphotographs]

Hey man that was very cool 😊

[@jacksuttonfilms]

Appreciate this a lot, thanks a lot man!

[@zteir]

You are my fav KZbinr by a LONG shot btw brother

[@mephistosmemoirs]

Dude ! That was the best explained tutorial for simple lighting techniques that i have seen. Great video. I think the robots do know that you love them. 😂

[@BillysWild]

Great video. You remind of a professor I had when getting one of my degrees.

[@rathuone3001]

Nice tutorial man 👍

[@flipnap2112]

I bought the molus x100 light and its amazing and SUPER small and light. its about the size of a small point n click camera and the fan never blows. when it does its silent. I was very skeptical but man oh man. super helpful

[@ironicanimations]

I’m new here, and u are very nice, funny and very good at explaining lighting in a coherent way 💙💙

[@steven4217]

Brah this video got me adjusting my whole Amazon wish list

[@brettrothmeyer8114]

that Point Break poster though!

[@Whyiadda]

Bro.. your content is so damn fantastic. Thanks for sharing.

[@LatrissaMThomas]

I love that I have discovered you. Your content and way of teaching is amazing 🙌🏾❤️ thank you. I would love to work with you!

[@sauce8277]

That was fun lmboo

[@brad3682]

that color grade did a lot!

[@mrwesleyhsk]

awesome bro

[@RiskaGilang]

G00D CInematic Lighting, GooD style, 🔥

[@TheMrSneelock]

Genius.

[@ganijonov]

11:46 wattahack xD Great job!

[@Cesar-pq2ck]

You made a cinematic film about making KZbin videos. Wow! You’re good!

[@captureinsidethesound]

Harbor Freight, Walmart, 5 Below and other cheaper bargain stores have portable LED lights of all sorts. I recently purchased 10 - LED flashlights for $1 each at Walmart that are just a single powerful LED light powered by 3 AAA batteries. Just one of these threw light across the corn field in my backyard. They fit perfectly on a microphone stand clip for point lights. I can tape 3-4 together and its so bright so i have to diffuse them with wax paper. I can fit all of them in a camera bag. I also use a 1000 and 2000 Lumen portable light from Harbor Freight that cost $20-30 that are extremely bright and spread light pretty well while also having the ability to power my other lights with its USB 5V output. RGB lights are where you need to spend most your money because although these places also have them they are not very bright so you have to stack them. I'm currently modifying a few RGB Smart lights to work on a portable battery that will be used as point lights that can change color with my phone app.

[@Evan-tp7ur]

Amazing video man I'm using this as a guide on what equipment I really need to purchase vs. what I have now. One question: why put the CTB filter on the cob light when it already has adjustable temperature? Does it not get cool enough?

[@BongoBon360]

Hey dude, I absolutely love the videos that you post! I’m studying film as of now and am looking for some Bluetooth lights that are semi cheap. What ones do you normally use (like the one in the first setup) or do you suggest another one?

[@StandardStoryCo]

The Smallrig light in this vid is a great value & very versatile. It actually has a bluetooth/smartphone app which I didn't realize until after I finished filming 😅 The other lights I have are okay in a pinch or certain situations, but I can't really vouch for them as they all annoy me in their own ways.

[@MeMesofSavagery]

Bro you and I think just alike because I'll use a shrub to break up somee light. I for real have a. Poor mans lighting setup. And the wax paper is my go to. Lol great video man

[@ThatAwkwardFilmmaker]

absolutely loved it, i might want to try the robot voice for sure xD

[@fulloffame]

Really enjoyed this! Subbed (:

[@Robert-Rojas]

I have those exact “cheapo LED panel lights” 😂😂😂😂 def gonna upgrade.

[@pinang1]

would you use a fog machine for normal daylight setup indoors? just so the image would have more depth?

[@nakajimayouko1586]

I am not even interested in filmmaking but I really enjoy watching your videos 😊

[@DIGIHENDRIX300]

What do you recommend for a budget lighting kit for really good looking music videos and cinema scenes?