There are a variety of techniques used when lighting a scene, each with a different effect on the atmosphere and mood.
Softness of the lighting: the softness of the lighting used is important, as it can clearly dictate what atmosphere a scene has by changing the shadows present in the shot. Harsh light leads to more shadows and a more striking scene with more shadows. This is often used in horror or action movies. Soft light leads to less shadows and a more comfortable, peaceful scene. This type of lighting is often used in family movies and comedies.
Higher key light: high key light is a lighting effect created by using more fill lights to remove shadows and keeping a balanced brightness throughout the frame. High key light is used to balance the lighting to keep the atmosphere calm and peaceful.
Diffused overhead lighting: there are ways to diffuse light using many different materials which are often used in close up shots.
Hard film lighting: small light sources will lead to more depth in the shadows on a shot, which is used to create dramatic effects and is popular in film noirs.
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