The eight setups
Three-point lighting
Key light about 45 degrees to the side, fill light on the opposite side, backlight from behind to separate the subject from the background. The basis of every interview.
Four-point lighting
Three-point plus a background light. Gives the space depth and keeps the person from sticking to a dark wall.
Book light
The light bounces off a surface and then passes through diffusion. The result: very soft, elegant light, ideal for interviews with a cinematic look.
Rembrandt
Key light high and to the side, so a small triangle of light appears under the eye on the shadow cheek. Dramatic and sculpted.
Loop
The key light sits a little higher and 30 to 45 degrees to the side. The nose shadow forms a small loop. Flattering for almost every face.
Butterfly / Clamshell
Light from the front and above, with a reflector below. The nose shadow looks like a butterfly. The classic for beauty and glamour.
Split
Light directly from the side, one half of the face stays dark. Strong for tension, mystery and contrast.
Short lighting
The light falls on the side of the face turned away from the camera; the shadow side faces the camera. Makes faces look slimmer and feels cinematic.
How to light properly
- Soft or hard: the larger the light source relative to the subject and the closer it is, the softer the light.
- Contrast: the ratio of key to fill sets the mood. Little fill feels dramatic, lots of fill feels friendly.
- Color temperature: only mix daylight (about 5,600 K) and tungsten (about 3,200 K) on purpose.