Cinematic Lighting on a Budget: 3 Easy Setups

[@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 👏

[@edh482]

With anything in life, it's really all about skill, and plenty of experience to apply that knowledge

[@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.

[@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.

[@petrolpoodle]

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!

[@dominichebler5515]

Thanks for the vid. I really like the part where you put all of the gear on one side and took it off on the other - until you grabed your cat. So funny!

[@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

[@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!

[@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.

[@vimalneha]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@micklivi92]

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

[@iSpike]

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

[@slhtheone]

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

[@JoeDavisMusic]

100% MY FAVOURITE channel on KZbin right now.

[@chris-abaya]

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

[@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.

[@FilomenaJackStudio]

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

[@SweatSmartSolutions]

By cheap I mean 0 dollars

[@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

[@katieistrying]

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!

[@blackswanmotion]

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

[@site_alpha_Liberty_Cat]

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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@gssg2010]

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

[@Newt211]

Playing around with the lighting effects, immediate thumbs up.

[@ecellis9651]

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

[@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.

[@mashadowsonly1]

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

[@thewizeguide9128]

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

[@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!

[@ChessDownUnder]

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

[@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.

[@TonyRush21]

GENIUS OB1...You have mastered the lights. 😊

[@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!

[@Cesar-pq2ck]

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

[@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

[@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

[@brettrothmeyer8114]

that Point Break poster though!

[@LavigneFTW]

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

[@brextenbezzant7763]

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

[@kameramanhv]

Ditto

[@steven4217]

Brah this video got me adjusting my whole Amazon wish list

[@androidplus.1]

Such cool stuff 🎉

[@ToTheMaxWorld]

One of the best channels in my opinion.

[@pampazapp4169]

Looking forward for next week!!

[@13galaxy]

"3x cats - priceless" absolutely

[@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

[@BillysWild]

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

[@MrJassumjas]

Kent I know your channel aint Netflix, but I definitely bindged your content like if it was stranger things vol 2

[@vamboo8918]

Nice studio tour 👍

[@zteir]

You are my fav KZbinr by a LONG shot btw brother

[@dakipro]

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

[@scott-trout]

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

[@DanielTuriman]

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

[@louqmanbadr1733]

I love your your tips. Thanks bro

[@1212films]

that color grade did a lot!

[@joeytrimble21]

The 120B just went on sale for $135 on Adorama I am 100% buying it now

[@borysotawa-kanaprywatny1512]

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

[@lucinematic]

So helpful, thank you! Glad I found your channel

[@WilliamTeller]

Indispensable content! Thank you

[@StandardStoryCo]

Thank YOU!

[@ganijonov]

11:46 wattahack xD Great job!

[@oniriscope]

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

[@jefflep1]

Freaking awesome! Whatever it takes to get it right!

[@tryingbridge2548]

I've definitely used a simple flashlight and stick leaning against the wall before

[@intrinsiccinema7374]

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

[@theindiefilmdude]

Absolutely LOVE DIY!

[@MartinKPettersson]

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

[@chinitopinoy1726]

Thanks for the lighting tips and setup man!

[@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. 😂

[@nakajimayouko1586]

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

[@gabrielchaparrotalkscrypto]

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

[@ahmedkamal7095]

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

[@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!

[@RiskaGilang]

G00D CInematic Lighting, GooD style, 🔥

[@Robert-Rojas]

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

[@readytochop2462]

This is one of the easiest things to pull off economically, in comparison to even just prosumer lights. Hot (tungsten) lights are mega cheap these days. My local tv station gave me 5 ARRI 1ks for free. Find an old par light. Theatre lighting. Go to Home Depot and make a light bar. Lamps with clamps are great for hanging as a hair light, just buy a hot spot bulb.

[@epicuserxd]

Your videos have improved recently nice edit

[@mikinotmouse]

You have become my filmmaking on a budget bible! Much love to you. I noticed, how're you watching your camera's feed through your tablet?

[@StandardStoryCo]

Thanks for watching! This vid shows how the tablet monitor works: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bZzLZIdqgbaCiLM

[@ColorfieldMedia]

This was awesome. Really good stuff.

[@franciscoramos6602]

beautifully amazing video 🙏 thank you

[@ironicanimations]

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

[@billg3356]

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

[@jbchannel88]

This channel is fantastic!

[@MIMCKMedia]

Nice video without just reading a spec sheet 🙏

[@RockWILK]

Awesome video. Thanks for sharing.

[@crackin2000]

A good bong makes a much better more fun smoke machine.

[@MyChiliIceCream]

Now that's how you do a budget video.

[@katsoftheuniversewillrule6166]

U Miami love to see it 🧡💚

[@DanielVisuals1997]

Maaan the first one is fiiree

[@ThatAwkwardFilmmaker]

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

[@HolyCrapGodIsReal]

Newbie. My first video. I subscribed. Great stuff.

[@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

[@vegaalbela1]

Wow, the Goldberg variations for your video??? Nice... Glenn Gould, right? Oh, my God, Dvcorak as well? Nice, very unusual for a young person to use this type of great music for their videos. Good work Sir!

[@CuppingHustlers]

So smart - so smart!

[@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.

[@aloyminimum]

Seeing how little gear this guy actually owns gives me so much hope lol

[@TodayInHistoryNO]

New to the channel! Great stuff! If I could make one request it would be a video about how to record ambient / set sounds!

[@jacksuttonfilms]

Appreciate this a lot, thanks a lot man!

[@TeraFav]

Loved it You're a great teacher ❤️