Just like taking a quality still photo, a great scene in a video requires great lighting. The light you choose for any scene directly influences its interpretation by the viewer. This is why it's important to have ample control of the light that is and is not visible through your camera. In order to do this, you need at least basic and essential videography lighting equipment. Luckily, if you don't have the means to purchase your own equipment outright, there are affordable options for rent through BorrowLenses.

Essential Equipment for Video Lighting

In order to have full control over the light in your video, you need a light source, modifier, reducer, direction controller, and color modifier. The source is your actual light, such as a Fresnel light, which is common in stage and video lighting. Modifiers such as softboxes and diffusion panels affect the quality of the light. Scrims, dimmers, and flags are ideal for reducing light while barn doors and snoots assist in controlling the direction of the light beam. You can also adjust light color with coloring gels or using a color calibration system. If you want extra assistance, color meters and light meters can help to ensure your lighting is exactly how you want it to be.

Don't forget about basics such as light stands and backdrops as well. If you don't have a large enough crew to hold all of the lights and reflectors you require, then you will definitely need stands. Green and blue backdrops can be used if you're not filming on location and plan on adding the background during editing.

Save a Buck or a Few Hundred

Video lighting equipment is a rather large investment. It doesn't matter if you're making a one-time video for a class project or plan on going to film school; renting the essential equipment is a great idea when you don't have the funds to purchase everything and you only need the equipment for a short amount of time. Find your basic video equipment plus lenses, mounts, and more when you browse the selection at BorrowLenses.