Don’t destroy your video with special effects. Here’s a guide to using vignettes for the right purpose.
First, what’s a vignette?
- A vignette is a visual effect used to frame a subject.
- The word vignette is derived from the word vine.
- In the old days , books are decorated with a pattern of vines around the edge.
What’s vignette in videography?
- A gradient of color around the edges of a scene.
When to use black vignettes?
- Emphasize a subject, especially in complex backgrounds, where the subject is not prominent.
- Add a sense of drama, something of a nostalgia effect.
- Even out a scene with one side looking too dark.
When to use white vignettes?
- Add a sense of space, giving a more positive and open feel.
- Works better in scenes that are already bright, like in outdoor daylight. It also works well in scenes with low color saturation and uncluttered background.
- Even out a scene with one side looking too bright, like a lens flare.
When not to use vignette?
- Do not use vignette if it has the opposite effect and if it de-emphasizes interesting details.
How to use vignettes the right way?
- Do not add dark vignettes on top of overexposed areas, because it will give a gray tone instead of a darker tone.
- Do not use the same smooth oval-shaped vignette in every scene.
- If the subject is off-centre, shape the vignette so it’s off-centre.
- Do not make the corners black.
- It should be subtle and not in your face.
Feel free to comment and ask questions.
Adrian Lee
www.VIDEOLANE.com
Camera and Video Editing Training
- Subscribe http://www.youtube.com/videolane
- Like http://www.facebook.com/videolane
- Friend me http://www.facebook.com/AdrianLeeYC
