Split lighting
分割光 · 半边光 · 侧光 · side lighting
What it is
Light from directly to the side; half the face lit, half in shadow.
When to use it
Duality, inner conflict, suspense.
When not to
When the full expression must read.
Often confused with
- Rembrandt lighting
Rembrandt keeps a triangle on the dark side.
Common generation mistakes
SymptomThe dark side is filled in and contrast is lost.
FixState that the other half of the face falls fully into shadow.