What is Neg Fill?
Negative fill, often referred to as “neg fill,” is a simple technique that helps you add more drama to your photos and videos by taking away some light. Instead of adding more lights, you use something dark, like a black cloth, to block extra light from hitting your subject. This creates stronger shadows and makes your photos look more interesting and professional.
It’s like shaping your photos with shadows! If your pictures look too flat or bright, try using neg fill to add contrast or depth and make your subject stand out more. It’s an easy way to make your images look cool and unique. Thus making your productions stand out from others.
When do I use Neg Fill?
Use neg fill when your subject appears too flat due to soft or even lighting. If the shadows are barely visible, adding neg fill deepens them, creating more contrast and dimension. It’s also useful for controlling light spill and shaping your scene. In portraits, for instance, neg fill helps balance light and shadow, significantly impacting the mood and focus of the image.
How do you do it?
Negative fill is a simple yet powerful technique that’s often overlooked. What we did to properly set up our neg fill was we started by placing a key light on a C-stand, directing it toward the subject. On the opposite side, we used a black paper backdrop to cover a white wall, reducing light bounce and keeping the subject’s shadow side dark.
To prevent light from hitting the background, we used the black (neg) side of a 5-in-1 reflector, attached to a stand. This helps control the light and create a more dramatic effect. Negative fill is an easy way to add depth and mood to your shots.
Why is Neg Fill Such a Game-Changer?
The real purpose of using neg fill is to give you more control over the look and feel of your photos or videos. When you use neg fill, you’re able to create deeper shadows and more contrast, which makes your subject stand out and adds a sense of depth to your shots. This can make your images or videos look more dynamic and professional, helping you tell your story more effectively.
Neg fill is especially beneficial because it lets you shape the light in a way that highlights the important parts of your subject while toning down areas that might be too bright. This balance can draw your audience’s attention exactly where you want it, making your productions more visually engaging and impactful.
Learn How to use Neg Fill in Under 1 Minute
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By: Brian Pollari