LIGHT MANIPULATION AND LENS CHOICES: INFLUENCE THE MOOD AND LOOK OF SCENES

Abstract

Background: Lighting manipulation and lens choices are essential components of visual storytelling, widely used in cinematography, photography, and digital media to influence the mood, perception, and emotional engagement of viewers. Scientific research highlights the psychological and physiological effects of light, including its impact on mood, cognitive performance, and visual clarity. Understanding how different lighting conditions and lens variations affect audience perception and narrative depth can enhance creative approaches in visual arts and optimize lighting environments for improved human experience.

Objective: This study aimed to investigate how light manipulation and lens choices influence visual perception, emotional response, and psychological well-being. The research examined the extent to which lighting variations affect mood and whether lens selection alters the viewer’s interpretation of a scene. Additionally, the study explored the potential physiological effects of lighting, such as eye strain and discomfort, to provide a comprehensive understanding of its implications.

Methods: A structured survey was conducted among 200 participants, including filmmakers, photographers, visual artists, and the general public. The questionnaire combined close-ended and open-ended questions to assess the impact of lighting intensity, color temperature, and lens types on perception and emotional engagement. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis, providing both numerical trends and qualitative insights. Statistical evaluation included frequency distribution and comparative analysis of emotional responses to varied lighting and lens setups.

Results: Among participants, 81.7% were aged 18–24 years, while 47.7% represented various professions outside film and photography. A total of 62% of respondents agreed that lighting significantly influenced mood, with 35% reporting that natural light positively impacted emotional stability. Lens choices affected perception for 52% of participants, influencing depth and spatial awareness. Additionally, 14% experienced eye strain or discomfort under specific lighting conditions, highlighting potential physiological effects. Bright lighting was associated with increased alertness by 53%, whereas dim lighting evoked calmness in 41% of cases.

Conclusion: The study confirms that light manipulation and lens choices are crucial in shaping the psychological and perceptual experience of visual media. Lighting significantly impacts mood, cognitive focus, and emotional engagement, while lens selection alters depth perception and scene interpretation. The findings underscore the importance of strategic lighting design in creative industries, architecture, and work environments. Further research should incorporate controlled experimental conditions to better analyze the physiological and cognitive effects of light exposure.