three-point-lighting

name	three-point-lighting
description	Use when lighting interviews or talking-head shots. Three-point = key, fill, rim. Foundation of professional lighting.

Three-Point Lighting

Three-point lighting: key (main), fill (softens shadows), rim (separates from background). Standard interview setup.

Three-point setup

1. Key light — main light, 45° angle to subject, brighter
2. Fill light — softens key shadows, opposite side, dimmer (1/2 to 1/4 key intensity)
3. Rim/back light — behind subject, edges hair/shoulders, separates from background

Three-point creates dimension without flat lighting.

Intensity ratios

Standard ratios:

• Key 100%
• Fill 25-50% of key (softer shadows)
• Rim 50-75% of key (separation)

Adjust per subject. Dramatic lighting: less fill (deeper shadows). Soft lighting: more fill (filled shadows).

Equipment

Affordable kit:

• 1 key light (Aputure 60D, $300)
• 1 fill light (LED panel, $100-200)
• 1 rim light (Aputure 60D, $300) OR practical lamp
• Softbox or diffuser for key
• C-stands or light stands

Total: $700-1000 starter kit, professional results.

Where this fits in the X3 empire

Lighting standard for CardPrepAI talking-head videos.