Photographers Warehouse

Definitions:

Main Light or Key Light:
The main light and usually brightest light in a scene is the light that is used to establish the shadows and the main modeling in the scene. The direction of this light is the most important in establishing the general look of the picture.

Key Info: The Main light is traditionally placed about an arms length away from the camera and slightly above the subject’s eye level.

Fill Light:
The second light is called the fill light. The fill light softens the shadows by slightly filling them in while lightening up the dark side of the subject. The fill light is almost always less bright than the main light and is placed on the opposite side of the camera from the key light and is usually not as high. Some photographers put the fill right next to the camera.

Key Info: The Fill light is traditionally placed on the opposite side of the camera at lens level and usually not as bright.

Background Light:
The third light in the set for the studio is the background light. It is usually placed directly behind the subject aimed at the background. It is used to eliminate shadows from the subject that might fall on the background. This light will also create depth from the backdrop. As a general rule keep you subject 4-5 feet away from the background to eliminate shadows.

Next you will need a Light Meter. This will allow you to see what intensity of light is hitting your subject. Meter each light separately to collect the appropriate f-stop and shutter speed for your shot.

Recommended Equipment:

PG30ELK : Three 100 watt second Monolights with stands and Umbrellas
Posing Stool
Light Meter
Background Stand