Three Point Lighting technique

The three point lighting technique is produced by three types of lights, i.e., key light, fill light and back light. These lights are classified on the basis of its functions. Key light illuminates the major portion of the scene and it is the main source of illumination. It produces a level of light that creates proper exposure. Basically flood lights are used to for key lighting.

The area that is away from the range of key light will remain dark. This area is filled with illumination using a fill light. It is the source that partially illuminates dark areas. It is used to soften the harsh shadows created by the key light. The intensity of a fill light will be comparatively lesser than a key light. It reduces the contrast between bright and dark sides.

The back light is used to separate the subject from the background and create a three dimensional effect. It is used to enhance the depth of the scene. It is applied from a higher level behind the subject which is opposite to the camera. For the purpose of production the intensity of light is controlled by using barn doors. The lights will be mounted on two types of grids. One is slung lamps which are attached to the ceiling of the studio and pointing downwards. Lights are also fixed on floor stands of adjustable heights called stand lamps.

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Studio Lighting techniques

Lighting is an essential part of cinematography and video production. Lighting provides enough illumination to produce a technically acceptable picture. It conveys a visual sense of space, time and mood. Studio lighting helps to clear the shape, texture and important details desired.

When filmed, the subject and the background look two dimensional to the viewers. Lighting helps to create a convincing three dimensional image by separating the subject and layers or background of the scene. A cinematographer plans how light falls on and around the actors, how light bounces and reflects onto subjects, and where then highlights and shadows are to be.

·         Styles of lighting

There are various kinds of lighting styles applied during a production. Some of them are:

1.      Directional or Hard Light

It illuminates a relatively small area with a clear and sharp light beam. Hard light produces shadows. Shadows can reveal shapes and details of the environment. When it is used effectively it can create vibrant images and emotions.

2.     Differed or Soft light

Soft light illuminates a large area with a wide blurry light beam. It can be used to lessen or avoid shadows. When it is effectively used it can produce sensitive effects. It is also used to compare with the potential harshness of directional light.

3.     High key Lighting

High key light is a highly bright light stream and diminishes the dark areas or shadows within the scene. It produces strong lighting on the subject and the other features present in the scene.

4.     Low Key Lighting

In this type of lighting only few areas are illuminated. It produces more shadow areas. It enhances the depth of the scene and subjects using highlights and shadow.

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