Techniques for modifying and controlling the quality of light on subjects and in scenes.

In Depth Cine offers an introduction to How Cinematographers Use Hard Vs Soft Light:

Indy Mogul demonstrates The Softest Hollywood Lighting Setups | 3 Easy Tricks:

Cinematographer Valentina Vee‘s thread on Hollywood’s techniques, past and present, for soft lighting of actresses:

Okay yeah let’s talk about it.

It’s because we literally don’t use those lights anymore to light anything, let alone women.

And also because modern actresses don’t want to be lit this way. 🧵 https://t.co/5JjsSelwKJ pic.twitter.com/0GeOJaTzoA

— Valentina Vee (@valentinavee) June 5, 2025

Try It Yourself

Brady Bessette sets up a book light:

Rob Ellis seeks to replicate the technique popularised by renowned cinematographer Roger Deakins, in his step-by-step on How To Use The “Cove” Light For Natural Looking Cinematic Lighting:

Further Viewing

Here’s a bunch more on the Cinematography of Roger Deakins:

Film School: The Cinematography of Roger Deakins