Direction

The direction of light is specifically related to the height and angle of the lighting source. Height refers to where the light source is placed above ground level. Is it above, below, or even with the subject? Angle refers to the slope of the light's beam. Together, height and angle determine where the highlights and shadows fall on your subject.

Placement of the light source directly above the heads of the subjects creates a different effect than placing the source at ground level and pointing up at the subjects.

Down Angle

Placement of the light source above the subjects and angled straight down results in a glowing effect on the tops of heads and shoulders while the face and body are shadowed.

This lighting effect might suggest an interrogation room or spiritual encounter. In this example the subjects look subservient to the light source which represents an entity of higher power.

Up Angle

Light placed on the ground and aimed up at the subjects will produce a dramatically different effect.

Unusual shadows are created by placing the light low, and in this case from behind. This lighting design creates a sinister or otherworldly effect. In this example, the subjects are made to look powerful and threatening.

These two examples are extremes; most non-theatrical projects don't involve sinister villains or powers from above. However, they point out how strong the relationship is between angle and height and how they affect the viewer's perception of a scene. At the least, you need to be careful not to imply something you don't intend by poor placement of your light source in relation to your subject. On the other hand, thoughtful placement of your lights can enhance and improve the look of your subject or scene.

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