Lighting

There are several different forms of lighting techniques used in filming to create different effects depending on the genre and scene of the film. Different atmospheres and tensions are conjured because of simple lighting changes and techniques.
The camera is usually aimed at the subject who often has a backlight behind them, a reflector/fill light to their right and a key light to their left. The key light is the brightest light and adds brightness. The back light can be used to create silhouettes or counteracts the key light; the filler light softens harsh shadows.

Techniques:
Under lighting - this is often used in horror films to create an eerie effect.
Top lighting - this is used to create a glamorous effect, making the face seem slimmer and softens the skin.
Back lighting - this is used to create silhouettes.
Low key lighting - this forms lots of shadows possibly adding an element of mystery. This is created using only key and back lights.
high key lighting - This is created using more filler lights making things seem more realistic.