Take control of window lighting on your next shoot with ND filters.
Windows are light sources that can work wonders — if you use them correctly. They’re ideal for soft key lights when the camera faces away from them. However, when cameras face windows providing backlight, trouble can arise. Unless you have a large lighting unit that can match the window light, you’re either going to have to drop the subject into a silhouette or expose for the actor which will blow out the window light.
There’s plenty of discussion on whether or not filmmakers should allow window lights to blow out. It’s a highly creative choice, and opinions will always differ. You might be surprised how many films and TV shows let window light clip. Take note next time you’re watching something.
For those who favor controlling window light, you can do so with ND gels.
ND Window Gels
Much like neutral density filters for your lens, ND window film reduces the intensity of window light. Window gels, like camera density filters, come in a variety of different strengths: .3, .6, .9, and 1.2. If you only have the budget to purchase one roll, you’re going to want at least 2-3 (0.6-0.9) stops of density filtration because sunlight is incredibly bright (around 98,000 lux). Several brands offer this gel; one of the most reputable is Rosco. However, at around $120 for a 7-meter roll, you can quickly burn through your budget.
Attaching the Gel
A common practice is to attach the gel to the outside of the window to conceal its edges. If you decide to do so, it’s paramount to attach the gel firmly to avoid light leaks and prevent the sound of the wind rustling the gel.
If attaching the gel to the outside of the window is not a viable option, you can temporarily bond the film to the window using a cleaning liquid like Windex. In the video tutorial below from Grip Tips, Dave Donaldson explains that it’s important to completely clean the window before placing the ND film, as you want to ensure that film and the window appear seamless.
If you have several large-scale windows to diffuse (and a large enough budget), ND window panels are more efficient. These are solid gels that you affix to a window. However, since they come in specific sizes, you might run into problems with oddly sized windows.
Image credit: Before the Door Pictures.
There’s an incredibly creative story from the thriller Margin Call. In the scene above, the windows are 50” to 52” wide, while the ND panels were only 48.” John Paino, the production designer, created removable pilasters to hide the gaps.
What are your thoughts on window light? Let us know in the comments.