practical-lights-for-realism

name	practical-lights-for-realism
description	Use when integrating real lights into scene. Practical lights = lamps, screens, windows visible in frame.

Practical Lights for Realism

Practical lights = motivated lighting. Lamps, candles, screens visible in frame. Adds realism and motivates other lighting choices.

Practical light examples

1. Desk lamp (warm tungsten)
2. Computer monitor (cool blue glow)
3. Window light (warm or cool depending on time)
4. Candles (very warm orange)
5. Neon signs (varied colors)
6. Phone screen (cool blue)
7. TV screen (varied)
8. Christmas/fairy lights (warm twinkle)

Motivating other lights

Practical justifies non-practical lights. If lamp visible in scene:

• Key light positioned where lamp would light from
• Color temperature matches lamp
• Intensity proportional to lamp's apparent brightness

Without motivation, lights look 'set up' (commercial feel). With motivation, lights feel natural.

Practical lights in interview

Add to interview scene:

1. Lamp in background (motivates key light direction)
2. Window with sheer curtain (key light source)
3. Computer monitor (subtle cool glow on subject)
4. Christmas lights string (atmospheric)

Makes interview look 'real' vs 'set-up'.

Where this fits in the X3 empire

Realistic lighting for CardPrepAI video shoots.