3 Point Lighting

The Standard 3-Point Lighting Technique

The three point lighting technique is a standard method used in visual media such as video, film, still photography and computer generated imagery. It is a simple but versatile system which forms the basis of most lighting. The technique uses three lights called the key light, fill light and back light.

Our task was to show the 3 types of light a in a video and explain the effect.

Key Light 

This is the main light. The strongest and has the most influence on the look of the scene. It is placed to the side of the subject so that this side is lit well and the other side has some shadow.

Fill Light

This is the secondary light and is [placed on the opposite side of the key light. It is used to fill the the shadows created by the key. The fill will usually be softer and less bright than the key. 

Back Light 

The back light is placed behind the subject and lights it from the rear. Rather than providing direct lighting, it's purpose is to provide definition and subtle highlights around the subjects outlines.