How to Light a Scene with Realistic DIY Fire Effects

In this lesson from our On Set Series: Cinematic Light Sources, Shane Hurlbut, ASC, shows how to recreate realistic firelight using controllable, DIY lighting setups. Watch here: https://bit.ly/44kFodJ

Drawing from classic techniques like Allen Daviau’s “Medusa” light and Shane’s own “Trash Can Firelight,” this video explores how to mimic fire’s dynamic qualities—hot base, sharp flicker, and organic movement—without relying on VFX.

You’ll learn how to build these custom lights, how to use flicker boxes for realism, and why real fire usually isn’t enough when lighting faces, sets, or backgrounds. Watch the full lesson here: https://bit.ly/44kFodJ

You’ll learn:
• Why firelight must be augmented on set
• How to build the Medusa and Trash Can lights
• Flicker box settings for natural fire effects
• Exposure tips for fire-lit night scenes

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00:00 - Intro: Lighting with Fire
01:27 - The Scene Setup in "The Greatest Game Ever Played"
02:30 - The Medusa Light Explained
04:10 - Flicker Box Settings for Fire Effects
05:30 - Why Real Fire Isn’t Enough On Set
06:20 - Building the Trash Can Firelight
07:45 - Firelight Strategy: Hot Base, Hard Top
08:30 - Final Thoughts on Firelight Emulation

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