6. 3-Point Lighting
3-Point lighting is the lighting technique used
by many photographers. It is easy to
understand but it can take a lifetime to master.
In addition to 3-Point lighting, there are
also 5-Point and 7-Point.
7. 3-Point Lighting
Just as it sounds, 3-Point lighting refers to
lighting the subject from three angles. The
lighting positions are referred to as the Key
Light, the Fill Light and the Back Light .
150w Back Light
600w Key Light 300w Fill Light
8. 3-Point Lighting
The Key and Back lights are roughly 45o from
the camera axis. Like all rules, this rule is made
to be broken as you will see in the upcoming
lighting scenarios.
150w Back Light
45o 45o
600w Key Light 300w Fill Light
9. 3-Point Lighting
The Key light is generally twice the intensity of
the Fill light which is twice the intensity of the
Back light. Again, these numbers are very
general and vary depending on the application.
150w Back Light
600w Key Light 300w Fill Light
16. LOOP PORTRAIT LIGHTING – In this lighting
technique, the key light here is lowered slightly and moved a bit
further to the side of the subject.
This produces a small “loop” shadow on the subject’s face.
The shadow starts from underneath the nose and pulls down toward
the subject’s mouth.
This lighting technique is commonly used as it is flattering for mostly
average and oval-shaped faces.
The fill light is meant to bring a bit more light to the shadow side of
the face.
Be careful that the fill light is not too strong that it produces its own
shadow.
Please also keep in mind that in portrait photography, the magic is in
the eyes. Keep the eyes evenly lit and ensure that the viewer is
drawn to them.
