The 3 Dimensions of Light

Last week I talked about the 3 "dimensions" of sound: quality, quantity, and timing. For the visual learners out there, I want to paint an analogy. Although certain forms of visual art are stationary (a painting or a sculpture, for instance), there are those (film, animation, etc.) that rely on time to tell their story. Just like sound, light can be broken down into 3 core "dimensions." First, light has quality. If the "quality" of sound is its pitch, tone, and texture, then the quality of light is its hue and saturation. A musician might ask what the key of a song is or what notes to play. A web designer might ask what colors he should use. Second, light has quantity. If the "quantity" of sound is its loudness, level, and volume, then the quantity of light is its brightness. A musician might play loudly or softly. A photographer might increase or decrease the exposure. And lastly, the quality and quantity of light changes over time. This is what makes a film not just a photograph. This is what makes an animation not just a drawing. A musician might play a chord progression. A film editor might juxtapose two shots. Time is essential to music. Time is essential to theater.