After Watching a lot of Wandering DP Episodes (https://www.youtube.com/@wanderingdp) I took my notebook and wrote down the basics, that he talks about all the time.
He calls it the Framework and he presents it as a practical system that guides the entire process of lighting and visual design. Patrick, also known as The Wandering DP, uses these six core elements to approach every scene in a clear and efficient way. The Framework gives filmmakers a structured method, especially when time, equipment or the location itself impose limitations.
1. Upstage Lighting and the Pareto Principle
The first component of the Framework is Upstage Lighting. This means placing the main light on the far side of the subject in relation to the camera. Upstage lighting shapes the face naturally and introduces pleasing shadows that help define the subject within the space. Patrick connects this idea to the Pareto Principle because he believes that this method provides most of the visual quality with very little effort. It is fast to set up, reliable in almost any situation and instantly produces a cinematic look. In demanding situations where decisions must be made quickly, this approach becomes extremely valuable.
2. Point of Control
The second element is the Point of Control. This idea is about recognising which elements in a location can be controlled and which cannot. Every room has fixed conditions such as window placement, wall color or natural light direction. Patrick suggests starting by identifying the element that is least controllable. Once this is understood, all other choices can be made around it. This mindset stops filmmakers from fighting the location and instead encourages them to work with what is available. It creates clarity and helps build a stable lighting plan.
3. The Lighting Triad
The Lighting Triad forms the third part of the Framework. It consists of the key light, negative fill, edge light and ambient. The key light defines the emotional direction of the scene. Negative fill is used to remove unwanted spill and strengthen contrast. The edge light separates the subject from the background and reinforces depth. Ambient light provides the base atmosphere without competing with the more intentional lights. When these four components work together, the scene gains structure, dimension and balance. Patrick views the triad as the core toolkit for almost any lighting situation.
4. Room Tone
The fourth component is Room Tone. This is the gentle lifting of shadows in a controlled and natural way. Room tone does not mean simply flooding the space with uncontrolled ambient light. Instead, it is a subtle adjustment that makes the environment feel realistic and prevents overly harsh contrast. By shaping the shadows carefully, the cinematographer can guide attention and maintain visual harmony.
5. The L of the Room
The fifth concept is the L of the Room. Patrick encourages shooting in a way that shows two walls of the space whenever possible. Displaying the corner or depth of a room helps the viewer understand its shape and dimensionality. It adds realism and makes the visual world feel lived in and grounded.
6. Salt and Pepper
The final element is Salt and Pepper. This refers to adding small variations of light and shadow throughout the frame. These details keep the image interesting and dynamic. They act like a visual rhythm that guides the viewer’s eye and prevents the frame from feeling flat.
Together, these six components form Patrick’s Framework, a structured, efficient and creative approach to lighting that supports both the technical craft and the emotional experience of a film.
