How to light a fire starting

[Guest Owen Tooth]

Hi, folks.

I need a little advice here. Next month I'm shooting a scene in which a fire is lit outside someone's window. I need to film the light changing in the room from candle-light to stronger light from the fire outside.

I'm shooting on the Sony Z1E hdv and I've got 4 Dedos and 3 Reheads at my disposal.

I can't light a fire directly outside the window. Is a dimmer and lots of scrim and orange gel my only option, or is there a clever trick anyone knows?

And do any of you know how to light a scene to look like candle light?

Sorry i'm asking such basic questions, but that's what the forum's for, right?

Many thanks,

Owen Tooth

Director / shooter, Derby, UK

[Dickson Sorensen]

I have seen a great effect of fire done by reflecting a light off of mylar strips or "space blanket". Put the lamps on a dimmer and bring them up to increase intensity. Color orange with gel to suit your taste.

[Guest Owen Tooth]

I can see that working really well, actually. I'll do some tests. Thanks for the idea!

Owen.