In week 2, the lecture centred on mise-en-scene – cameras and lighting. 

There are a few different kinds of lighting that are used for a variety of reasons. For example, there’s global illumination/ambient lighting, which can effect the mood of the scene and make an animated sequence far more realistic. 

High and low-key lighting refers to the power of the light. High-key lit scenes have bright backgrounds and soft shadows, while low-key lit scenes have dark, subtle backgrounds and more emphasis on harsh shadows. 

Three point lighting refers to the standard lighting method used in most medias. A key light is placed to the front and side of the subject, acting as the main light source. The back light is placed behind the subject, adding a rim of light that separates the subject from the background. The fill light is placed to the front and opposite side of the key light and set at a lower power, effectively softening the harsh shadows created by the first two lights.

The camera movement and angles are also very important in visual storytelling. 

We were introduced to the concept of the 180 degree rule, which prevents the viewer from becoming confused about the placement of characters and props in a scene. 

Framing and angles can make a character look intimidating and triumphant or small and weak.