Lighting

3 Point Lighting.txt:
Three point Lighting adds dimension, as the goal of three point lighting is to create the illusion of a three-dimensional subject in a two-dimensional image.
Using light and shadow is a powerful way to accomplish three-dimensions, and three point lighting is the lighting technique most commonly used.


The Key Light- This is the main light used on your subject.
The Fill Light- The purpose of this light is to fill in the shadows created by the Key Light, preventing them from getting too dark. It should not create a second shadow. If there are two shadows, this means it's too powerful and needs to be reduced.
The Back Light- This is used to separate the subject from the background.


A good rule of thumb, if you're trying to create a standard look, is to put the Key Light on the side of the camera in which the subject is facing.


Scrims are designed to reduce the light without softening it.
Neutral density gels to reduce light.
You don't have to use a separate light as a fill light.


A common misconception with three Point Lighting:
There's no need for three separate lights as you can go outside in the evening, when the sun is about 45 degrees up in the sky, and shoot the video of a friend. You need to place your friend with their back to the sun, and put your camera in front of them. This will mean the sun will be the back light.
You can then use a reflector to reflect the sunlight into your friends face. This will add a Key Light to their face.