Music Video - Gaffer
I recently had the opportunity to work as the Gaffer on the music video for Rue's 'I Do Nothing', filmed in Cornwall. The project involved lighting a large primary location which had a distinctive atmosphere – its particular character reminded me somewhat of scenes found in Tarantino films. This impression served as a key motivation for the lighting approach we decided to take.
The main technical challenge involved balancing the numerous existing practical light fixtures within the large space alongside controllable placed sources. The objective, set with the Director of Photography, was to integrate these sources to achieve a specific warm, cinematic look that complemented the location's inherent vibe.
As the Gaffer, my focus was on creating that warm, soft, and atmospheric feel. I carefully managed the colour temperature and intensity of Sidus controlled fixtures to blend effectively with the practical’s. All of which were dimmable in zones to better control the ambient light. A crucial element in achieving the desired mood was the use of a haze machine which soften the light, catch beams effectively, and build the soft, hazy aesthetic that became integral to the video's final look.
I love lighting and If your next project requires considered lighting solutions – whether managing difficult locations, balancing mixed light sources, or achieving a specific visual style like the warm, hazy look discussed here – please feel free to get in touch to discuss your requirements.
BTS photos & Video:
Stills from project
Info on Crew & Production
Production Company: Paenji Productions, Director: Charlotte Meling, Producer: Jacob Saul, Director of Photography: Billy Abbott, Gaffer: Neal Megaw. Language: English, Location: Cornwall, United Kingdom 2024.