What are the most common lighting setups for video production and how can you choose the right one?

1 Three-point lighting

Three-point lighting is the most basic and widely used lighting setup for video production. It consists of three lights: a key light, a fill light, and a back light. The key light is the main source of illumination, usually placed at a 45-degree angle from the camera and the subject. The fill light is a softer light that fills in the shadows created by the key light, usually placed on the opposite side of the camera and the subject. The back light is a light that creates separation between the subject and the background, usually placed behind and above the subject. Three-point lighting is ideal for interviews, portraits, and product shots, as it creates a balanced and flattering look.

2 Four-point lighting

Four-point lighting is a variation of three-point lighting that adds a fourth light: a background light. The background light is a light that illuminates the background of the scene, usually placed behind and below the subject. The background light can create contrast, depth, and interest in the scene, as well as hide any imperfections or unwanted elements in the background. Four-point lighting is suitable for scenarios where you want to highlight the background or create a specific mood or atmosphere.

3 Low-key lighting

Low-key lighting is a lighting setup that uses a high contrast between light and dark areas, creating a dramatic and mysterious effect. Low-key lighting usually involves a single key light, often placed at a low angle or from the side, and little or no fill light or back light. The shadows are deep and prominent, and the background is dark or black. Low-key lighting is common in genres such as horror, thriller, and noir, as it creates tension, suspense, and mystery.

5 Natural lighting

Natural lighting is a lighting setup that uses the available light from the sun or the moon, without any artificial lights. Natural lighting can create a realistic and authentic look, as well as save time and money on equipment and electricity. However, natural lighting can also be unpredictable and challenging to control, as it depends on factors such as weather, time of day, and location. Natural lighting is often used in documentaries, travel videos, and outdoor scenes, as it captures the natural beauty and atmosphere of the environment.

6 Mixed lighting

Mixed lighting is a lighting setup that combines natural and artificial lights, creating a hybrid and creative look. Mixed lighting can allow you to balance, enhance, or contrast the natural light with the artificial light, as well as create different color temperatures and moods. Mixed lighting can be used in any genre or style, as long as it matches your artistic intention and vision. Mixed lighting can also be a solution when you have to deal with changing or insufficient natural light.