Hack 19. Use Paper Lamps for Lighting

Cheap paper lamps can be used to effectively light a scene.

Lighting a scene can make a dramatic difference in the look of your video. The problem for most people is that professional lighting kits are expensive, difficult to use, and not easy to transport. Fortunately, a few low-cost paper lamps can help bring a more professional look to your video. When purchased in sets of varying sizes, they are a perfect complement to a cheap, home-assembled lighting kit [Hack #17].

Asian paper lamps are often spherical in shape and come in a variety of sizes, up to 30 inches in diameter. They can be purchased from numerous places online, some home improvement stores, and even lighting stores. They cost anywhere from less than $3 to slightly more than $30, depending on the size and quality of the lamp. When illuminated from inside, paper lamps cast a soft, diffuse light. Figure 2-7 shows a frame of video without lighting and one lit by paper lamp (with a 100W bulb).

Figure 2-7. Lighting without (left) and with (right) a paper lamp

Most paper lamps do not include a cord and socket for a light bulb. Such assemblies cost around $5 and are almost always available when purchasing paper lamps. They practically go hand-in-hand and the distributors know this fact. An additional benefit of the cord/socket assembly shown in Figure 2-8 is that you can use it by itself, as well.

Figure 2-8. A cord and socket assembly

For additional control over the light, you can attach a dimmer. You can also use higher wattage bulbs or even use a colored bulb for effect. If you are trying to light an actor who is moving around, you can attach the light to a long pole and hang the light above him (much like a microphone boom [Hack #53]). In the end, paper lamps are highly functional, easy to transport, and best of all, cheap.