Stewart Cohen sat down with Jason Penza, the gaffer on his Borgata Hotel and Casino shoot, to discuss the intricacies of lighting the Borgata. The project, which filmed over 4 days on location in Atlantic city, resulted in stunning still photos and a visually dynamic commercial campaign.
In this SC Pictures Youtube video, director Stewart Cohen sits down with seasoned gaffer Jason Penza to explore the intricate art of lighting on location at the Borgata Hotel and Casino. Together, they break down five stunning shots filmed across the property — from the intimate glow of a luxury hotel room to the dynamic energy of the casino floor and the atmospheric depth of an entertainment venue.
Jason Penza walks viewers step-by-step through his lighting diagrams, sharing his professional insights on how to shape mood, texture, and visual tone with precision. He discusses his go-to lighting gear, modifiers, and techniques, revealing how each choice contributes to the final cinematic look. Whether balancing practical lights in a dining area or crafting contrast in a performance space, Jason shows exactly how to paint with light to tell a story. Check it out!
Check out the full video on YouTube to see Jason's lighting diagrams and hear how he and Stewart pulled off every shot.