Proper Lighting
This post is also available in: Russian, Spanish
Note: This setup can be reversed left to right. You may also find moving the Back Light to the opposite side or even center can yield good results. As an alternate for using diffusers, pointing your lights towards a white wall (or the ceiling in the case of your back light) can help diffuse the light giving you softer shadows.
Key Light
Primary light source
45 degree angle from camera
Brightest of the 3 lights
Fill Light
Secondary light source
50-75% less power than the Key Light
If lights are all same power, use diffusion paper
Back Light
Separates background from subject
May also go opposite the Key Light or centered
Diffusion must be used
Lowest intensity of the 3 lights
Placed above and out of frame
Webcam
Should usually be placed about eye level
If you are just getting started and can’t afford a lighting kit you can just pick up some clamp on work lights, some light bulbs (One 100w (key), one 50w (fill) and one 20w (back) and some diffusion paper (or try soft lights even) and some clamps. Just taking those simple steps will still make a huge difference from your ambient room lighting.
Lighting Kit Recommendations
Below are some fairly inexpensive lighting kits that you may find useful.
- Two 7 Ft. Stands, One Mini Stand + Umbrellas Light Kit (Under $100)
- Low Energy Fluorescent Lighting Kit (Under $200)
- 2275 Watt Lighting Kit (Under $250)
Clamp on Work Lights
Some inexpensive lighting options
Diffusers
Some inexpensive ways to start diffusing your light sources if you do not plan on purchasing a full lighting kit.
