BARRY LYNDON (1975)

Director: Stanley Kubrick

Cinematographer: John Alcott, BSC

Candlelight Scene

Daylight Scene

TECHNICAL SPECS

Camera: Mitchell BNC, Arriflex 35
Format: 35mm, 1.66:1
Lenses: Modified Zeiss f/0.7 50mm (candlelight), Zeiss Super Speeds
Film Stock: Kodak 5254
Key Innovation: First feature film shot entirely with natural light and candlelight

ALCOTT'S APPROACH

Philosophy: "Painterly compositions with authentic period lighting"
Signature: Natural and candlelight cinematography
Innovation: Modified NASA Zeiss f/0.7 50mm lens for candlelight scenes
Style: Side lighting rather than flat lighting for depth

LIGHTING SETUP

Candlelight Scenes: Actual candles as sole light source
Daylight Interiors: Natural window light with minimal enhancement
Exteriors: Natural daylight with reflectors
Compositions: Inspired by 18th-century paintings

VISUAL STRATEGY

Zoom as primary camera movement
Slow, deliberate camera movements
Compositions inspired by 18th-century paintings
Natural light sources visible within frame

RECREATION NOTES

Use extremely fast lenses (f/1.4 or faster) for low-light scenes
Position candles strategically within frame
Employ natural window light for daytime interiors
Study 18th-century paintings for composition reference
Use slow zooms rather than tracking shots