A Study on Film Lighting Design Strategy based on Visual Thinking Theory

The purpose of this study is to enhance the insufficient integration of theoretical methods and design concepts in lighting design from the viewpoint of the integration of vision and thinking emphasized by the visual thinking theory. Film lighting, as a crucial component of cinematography, transcends mere illumination, using light and shadow interplay to convey atmospheric narratives and emotions, drawing inspiration from realistic photography and painting themes. The tasks assigned in film lighting design are not only to replicate the perception given by natural light to the audience but also to convey the dramatic expression in the film script. Visual thinking theory can not only fully explain the elements of lighting design, but also better organize the strategic priority of lighting design relationships, providing appropriate lighting design ideas. Based on the practical experience of natural lighting in design, this study combines the discussion of visual thinking with the steps of lighting design, and organizes the thought process of lighting placement. It attempts to explore the unity between the abstract elements of film lighting aesthetics and the application of lighting design in order to better understand and apply visual thinking theory from the perspective of film lighting design, and provide examples from the realm of film lighting for the representation of visual thinking theory. From Rudolf Arnheim’s visual thinking theory, combined with cinematic lighting design ideas and cases, the research method in this study advocates a re-examination of the methodology, functional significance, and design relationship in the ambient lighting approach in film lighting from the principles and functions of lighting design. Results indicate that visual thinking theory can be effectively applied to the strategies of film lighting design, which provides logic and procedural guidance for lighting design strategies and proposes different interpretations of film lighting aesthetics.