5 books every lighting directors working in video production should read

If you’re a lighting director working in video production, there are several essential books that can deepen your understanding of lighting techniques, aesthetics, and practical applications. These books cover a wide range of topics related to lighting for film, television, and digital media. Here are some must-reads:

1. “Cinematography: Theory and Practice” by Blain Brown:

   • Focus: Comprehensive overview of cinematography.

   • Why Read?: Blain Brown’s book covers essential concepts, from camera sensors to DIT workflow. It’s a practical handbook for lighting directors, providing insights into the technical and artistic aspects of cinematography.

   • https://www.amazon.com/Cinematography-Theory-Practice-Cinematographers-Directors/dp/0240812093

2. “The Filmmaker’s Eye: Learning (and Breaking) the Rules of Cinematic Composition” by Gustavo Mercado:

   • Focus: Cinematic composition and visual storytelling.

   • Why Read?: Gustavo Mercado’s book emphasizes shot size, framing, and composition. It’s a great resource for understanding how a single frame conveys a complete story.

   • https://booksite.elsevier.com/samplechapters/9780240812175/01~Front_Matter.pdf

3. “Sight Sound Motion: Applied Media Aesthetics” by Herbert Zettl:

   • Focus: Aesthetic image elements in film and TV.

   • Why Read?: Herbert Zettl’s comprehensive book explores light, color, space, time-motion, and sound design. It’s a deep dive into the minutiae of image making, essential for lighting directors

   • https://books.google.com.hk/books/about/Sight_Sound_Motion_Applied_Media_Aesthet.html?id=ZDs2CwAAQBAJ&redir_esc=y

4. “Reflections: Twenty-One Cinematographers at Work” by Benjamin Bergery:

   • Focus: Insights from working DPs (Director of Photography).

   • Why Read?: Benjamin Bergery interviews legendary DPs like Darius Khondji and Jordan Cronenweth. Their practical experiences provide a hands-on perspective for lighting directors.

   • https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/190476.Reflections

5. “Lighting for Cinematography: A Practical Guide to the Art and Craft of Lighting for the Moving Image” by David Landau:

   • Focus: Practical lighting techniques.

   • Why Read?: David Landau’s book covers lighting for film and video. It explains how to create mood, enhance storytelling, and manipulate light effectively. A valuable resource for lighting directors.

   • https://www.bloomsbury.com/in/lighting-for-cinematography-9781501325564/

These books not only teach technical skills but also inspire creativity. Dive into these titles, experiment with lighting setups, and continue refining your craft as a lighting director.