Light is the number one factor in a UGC video, and in Italy it changes radically between north and south, and between summer and winter. Knowing how to adapt is worth more than any equipment.

The southern problem: harsh sun

From May to September, and all year in the southern regions, direct sun creates hard shadows on the face and burns out detail. It is the most common flaw in videos shot in Italy.

The solution: never film in full sun. Look for open shade (under a portico, in a building's shadow but with sky visible), or film in the first hours of the morning and the last hour before sunset. Indoors, move away from the window and use a light curtain.

The northern problem: grey winter

From November to February the Po valley has short days and often overcast skies. Natural light is usable but weak, and it ends early.

The solution: film between 11 and 15, as close to the window as possible, with a pale wall in front of you to bounce light back. If you film regularly, an inexpensive LED panel placed in front and slightly above solves the problem for good.

The shared problem: shutters

Roller blinds and shutters create stripes of light. Open them fully and diffuse with a curtain, or close them completely and use an artificial source. The halfway option is the worst.

What to buy, in order

  1. Nothing, for the first twenty videos: window and curtain are enough.
  2. An LED panel with a stand, around 60 euros, once you also film in the evening.
  3. A second panel or a reflector, only if you shoot products that need two sources.

Beyond that you are no longer buying results, you are buying comfort.

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Frequently asked questions

Can you film in full sun?

Better not. Open shade or the first and last hours of the day.

Do you need an LED panel in the north?

In winter it becomes useful, especially if you film regularly.

How do you handle shutters?

Open with a diffusing curtain, or closed with artificial light. Never halfway.

Does light matter more than the camera?

Yes, clearly. It is the number one factor.