Film Language Tag: contrast

The relative difference between the maximum and minimum points of light in an image. An image in which there is little gradation (or grey tonal scale) between light and dark areas is described as high contrast or ‘contrasty’; while one with considerable gradation is described as low contrast. This term is used in reference to films shot in black-and-white whereas the tag color contrast is used when referring to color films. Intended to refer to contrast created through lighting choices that create/do not create shadows rather than camera-dictated choices. Kuhn, Annette and Guy Westwell. A Dictionary of Film Studies. 2nd ed. Oxford UP, 2020.