Story Lighting Worksheet

Turn a story moment into a lighting plan you can take to the set.

One shot, one clear intention

Kitchen / shot 3The unopened letter beside the cup0 of 4 checks complete

Start with this fictional example, then replace it with your scene.

Scene and shotWhat should the audience notice?Where does the light come from in the story?Light direction and softnessBrightness and colour choicesWhat must match in the next shot?

Before the takeWatch a test clip at the intended camera settingsCheck that the important detail is readableCompare the adjoining shots for continuityAgree safe light, stand and cable positions

Your shot plan

0 of 4 checks complete

Fictional worked example

Scene and shot: Kitchen / shot 3
What should the audience notice?: The unopened letter beside the cup
Where does the light come from in the story?: Morning window to camera left
Light direction and softness: Soft side light; keep the far wall darker
Brightness and colour choices: Letter brighter than the table; neutral daylight
What must match in the next shot?: Window stays on the same side; photograph the setup

Before the take

Not yet checked: Watch a test clip at the intended camera settings
Not yet checked: Check that the important detail is readable
Not yet checked: Compare the adjoining shots for continuity
Not yet checked: Agree safe light, stand and cable positions

Changes update here as you type.

Begin with the information in the shot

Write down what the audience needs to notice or feel before you list equipment. It might be a face becoming readable, a detail left in shadow, or a character moving from one pool of light to another. Treat those as choices to try, rather than rules for a particular emotion.

Make a plan you can repeat

Describe the light source that belongs in the scene, where you intend to put the light, and the brightness and colour you want to compare in a test. Add fixture names, settings or a reference-photo filename if your crew needs them. Use the continuity field to record what should stay consistent between shots.

The example is an invented kitchen scene, not a reconstruction of a film. This worksheet records your decisions; it does not calculate exposure, power loads, lighting ratios or rigging safety. Rehearse and review a camera test with your crew before committing to the setup.

Keep a copy beside the camera

Print plan includes all six notes and the state of each check. Save as PDF in your browser's print dialog if you need to share it. Clear plan removes the example and unticks the checks; Load example brings it back. When browser storage is available, your latest plan stays on this device. Export a copy before clearing your browser data or moving to another device.

For the choices around the frame, read our visual storytelling guide. For packing the equipment once your plan is agreed, use the event lighting kit checklist.