Light Up Your Scene LIKE A PRO Cinematographer!

In this episode, we take a deep dive into a behind-the-scenes lighting breakdown from filmmaker and cinematographer Chris Tinard of CNOMADIC. Chris recently released a video detailing how he tackled a complex three-person podcast shoot in an unfamiliar, out-of-state location—and we’re unpacking it all. Originally planned as an outdoor shoot, unexpected rain forced the team indoors with gear primarily intended for exterior lighting. Chris walks us through every decision he made, from embracing large windows as a key light source to solving color temperature challenges with limited fixtures and practicals. On the show today, we explore: • How Chris adjusted his entire lighting plan when the environment shifted last minute • His thought process around framing and key light placement in a multi-camera setup • The challenges of cross-keying with limited fixtures—and how to make it work • Why exposing for the windows first can save your entire lighting setup • Strategies for balancing mixed color temperatures using bounced light and camera calibration • A behind-the-scenes moment where a “mistake” turned into the best lighting choice of the day • And how a second-year film student (his son and PA) wasn’t afraid to challenge the setup—and ended up being right This episode is a fantastic reminder that lighting is never about perfection—it’s about problem solving, creative flexibility, and using the tools you have to serve the story. Whether you’re shooting interviews, podcasts, or narrative scenes, there’s something in here for every filmmaker looking to elevate their lighting game.

🎧 Tune in as we break down Chris’s real-world approach to location lighting and what we can all take away from it.

📺 Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/ZSduHyOEKug?si=IArdsfGhTM9udOei