Key light: the brightest and main source of light of your subject Generally positioned about 45 degree angle from the camera.
Fill light: Fills in the shadows created by the key light. Positioned on the other side of the camera from the key light, illuminating the shadows cast from the key light. Must be less bright than the key light, so there is still contrast on each side of the subject.
Backlight: Creates a rim of light around the subject to distinguish the subject from the background. Positioned behind the subject
3 point lighting is the base for most lighting in film, and consist of 3 points of light that are the Key, Fill and backlight.
The key light is the main source of light for the technique, and highlights definitions on a subject’s face, and can be used to create effects like chiascuro.Here is a shot of Backlight Only. The backlight adds the effect of a rim light around the subject, and can convey power, and mirage to a character- we can’t see the expression as clearly, and therefore the mysteriousness of their true thoughts is created by not being able to read emotion.When used together the key and fill light keep both the definition of features from the key lighting, as well as the clarity and detail of the fill light. This therefore creates an effect of clarity to a subject.When used altogether these lighting effects come together to form a more clear and 2 dimensional lighting that’s easier on an audiences eyes, and that is the basis of most lighting in cinematography.
This is the brightest light and is the main source of lighting for the shot on the subject. It is generally positioned at a 45 degree angle from the camera but it depends on what is needed for the scene.
Key light only
Fill Light
This is the light that fills in the shadows created by the key light and should be positioned on the other side of the camera. It is important that the fill light is dimmer than the key light so their is still a contrast.
Fill light only
Backlight
This light is used to create a rim around the subject to distinguish it from the background. It is normally positioned behind the subject either higher or lower so it remains out of camera shot.
Backlighting only
Final shot of all lighting techniques used
Three-point lighting all togetherLighting and Camera set-up
