Re: Lighting a School classroom

I get the message loud and clear about the totas. If I have a north facing window and do as everyone says, shoot with my back to the window and faces towards the window...that all sounds good. But what if it's a really cloudy day? I know some clouds are good for diffused natural light, but if it's dark and rainy. Don't I need a backup plan to get ambient light in the room?

Mabe I should consider renting HMIs. How many and how big would I need? I've never used them, but I'm assuming they work like Fresnels, only daylight balanced? (I've used fresnels, and I'm somewhat comfortable with them).

I think, for many reasons, going simple is wise--with as few mics and lights as possible to make the kids feel self-conscious. But for a backup...I'm confused all over again. I guess it's not easy!

Dan S.