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How to Get Great Lighting for Your Video

2,528 views · Published 23 January 2013 · 1:48 · Indexed 2 October 2026

Channel: StoryGuide · 2013 · Film & Animation

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Key light, fill light, back light, and background light. That is the simplicity of three point lighting. OK, that's four. Whether you are using professional lighting equipment or the fixtures you find in an office, you can learn to use 3 point lighting to light a scene.

Begin your lighting set-up with the key light. As the name implies, it's the main light source for your scene. To soften the shadows we add a second light, not as bright, called the fill light. The third point is the back light. It separates your subject from the background by creating a subtle rim of light. The fourth light is used to light the environment. Background lights add depth and separation. It can be a pattern of light, a slash on the wall, or a wash of color.

A pro setup is great if you have a professional light kit, but most of us need to make do with what we find on location.

The biggest available lighting asset is also your biggest liability. The window. Most cameras automatically adjust the exposure to the brightest thing in the frame, so including the window can result in an interview with a silhouette. The auto exposure feature will set the exposure for the bright window if it is in your frame. By moving slightly to one side to remove the window frame from your shot, the camera will adjust to a proper exposure. Sunlight from a window can be used as a key, if you are careful. The light can be very harsh so if there are blinds adjust them while looking through the viewfinder to balance it with the other lights in the room.  

One light that is often a lifesaver, either as a key light or as a fill, is the trusty articulated desk lamp. You know, the Luxo lamp. You can adjust the brightness by changing the distance to your subject. If the shadows look too harsh, you can bounce the light off the wall to soften the effect. Often you will need more than one, so don't be shy. Wander the hall to see what you can borrow. I've been known to bring one with me when I arrive for an interview.

Other fixtures to consider include work lights from my garage, table lamps, and florescent lights. Whatever is available.

It requires a little improvisation, but if you understand the idea behind 3 point lighting you can significantly improve most every situation. The key to good lighting with available resources is: be aware. Before you start shooting look to see what resources you have available and don't let bad lighting get in the way of your story.

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