Color contrast gives cinematographers the ability to enhance the visual interest of their images dramatically. Just like the contrast between highlights and shadows, the contrast between various colors is an advanced technique for adding cinematic depth to a film. Color contrast can be utilized subtly for a nuanced effect, or dramatically to create an incredibly stylized image. Cinematographer and Co-Founder of ShareGrid, Brent Barbano, shows us several tips and examples for using color contrast in your lighting.
In this episode, Brent shows us how to effectively inject color contrast into our visuals based on a scene's story and location, using two different examples. In our first example, we tackle mixed color temperature lighting, as we combine daylight and tungsten-balanced lighting to create a unique effect, with a subtle amount of color contrast that still creates enhanced visual interest. In our second example, Brent utilizes more saturated colors to light a musical performance, combining red and teal colors, and discusses how the color wheel is more of a guide than a steadfast rule.
Brent also talks about the importance of using color contrast and lighting to enhance the themes of your story, how to choose complementary colors from the color wheel, and how to embrace the practical limitations of your location in your visuals. By understanding the nuances of each of these tips, you will be able to enhance the cinematic quality of your films dramatically.
By learning how to use color contrast in your cinematography effectively, you'll be able to unlock new creative avenues and enhance the depth of your story and cinematic visuals. You'll learn how to embrace the unique depth that mixing color temperatures brings to your image, as well as how to use stronger saturated colors in a controlled manner, so you don't cheapen your images.
