Our Friend The Lighting Artist
According to Get In Media: The lighting artist working as a member of a visual effects or digital animation team is responsible for applying all lighting effects to a scene. He or she takes into consideration the light sources of the live-action plate (the filmed scene over which VFX features are placed) and applies virtual lighting to mimic the existing illumination within the environment. He or she may also add secondary virtual light to visually enhance the objects or characters in the scene, such as adding eye glint or rim lighting. The goal is to ensure that the VFX and live-action elements blend seamlessly, as though both exist in the same environment.
These amazing artists are responsible for some of those most memorable images in the movies. Movies like all Star Wars, Star Trek, Lord Of The Rings, Harry Potter and many more make the impact that they do visually because there was careful consideration given to the lighting of the whole production. The various lighting effects helped to draw us in and make what we see more tangible. The images helped inspire our immersion into the story.
I am Not One Of Those But Learning
As someone who studied physics and understand some of how materials reflect light, and as someone who produces digital art you would think that I would be an ace at lighting my scenes. At best I think I get a passing grade. I have what I call a general purpose knowledge of lighting and that is it. It is far from artistry. I have more luck moments with light than I like to admit.
I have a long way to go with this scene. I have to add a buffer zone for the trees so I have some grass along the edge of the road bed. Which, also need to go in. This started out as a technology demonstration for someone and now I am working on it a bit more.
Anyway, thank you once again all of you lighting artist. This artist appreciates the work that you do and feel free to share any hints.