The video production industry and the creative sector as a whole have taken a beating during the Covid-19 pandemic. As we all recover from the economic inactivity of lockdown and face the ‘new normal’, it could be easy to think that professional video production would need to stop for the foreseeable future. This may be true for certain types of production, but it doesn't apply to all. For sectors that are recovering, there is still a demand for video content that needs to be met, providing that safety takes priority.

The white screen ‘studio’ look is a tried and tested style used in many corporate and talking head videos. There’s a reason why so many people use it - when done properly it looks professional and high end. However, just shooting in an infinity cove or against a white backdrop isn’t enough to give it the ‘look’. Yes, you’re going to need a decent camera, but the secret to making it look professional is to create an effective lighting setup that ensures your subject jumps out to the viewer.

When you’re starting out in video production and are introducing some lighting into your productions it can often be difficult to know where to begin. Well, one good place to start is to get to grips with a basic concept; understanding the difference between hard and soft light. But more importantly, understanding what you can do with both types of sources and why you might choose one over the other (or use both) will help you to raise the production value of your shoots substantially.