lighting

3 Point Lighting

Three Point Lighting uses three different light positions: a key light, a fill light, and a back light. This style of lighting can be used to lit the subject however desired. The photographer has control over the shadows and shading produced by direct light. The key light is the primary light in this set up, it shines directly on the subject. The positioning, strength, angle, and color of this light determines the overall lighting design of the shot. The fill light is placed at an angle relative to the key light. It is usually positioned lower and the object of this light is to illuminate  the shaded surfaces. This light is usually softer and less bright. The final light, the back light, shines on the subject from behind. It gives a rim light to the subject, providing highlights to the contour and separating the subject from the background. 

Birds Eye View of 3 Point Lighting

Example of 3 Point Lighting Portrait
http://www.photographyreal.com/7-stunning-examples-of-portrait-photography/

Rembrandt Lighting

Rembrandt lighting uses one main light and a reflector, or a key light and a fill light. In this lighting style, one side of the face is well lit from the main light while the other side focuses on the interaction of shadows and light - chiaroscuro - to create a geometric form on the face. This geometric form, usually a triangle or diamond, is located under the eye and is no longer than the nose and no wider than the eye. This shape is the key to Rembrandt lighting. This illuminated triangle is found on the less illuminated side of the face. Set up for this style includes a key light and a fill. The key light is placed in front of the subject, high, and to the side. The fill light is positioned at half height and on the other side of the subject. It is about half of the power of the key light. This style of lighting is appealing because the final image created is natural and compelling, also this style of lighting required minimum equipment. It is named for the Dutch painter Rembrandt, who used this style of lighting. 

Bird's Eye View of Rembrandt Lighting

Example of Rembrandt Lighting
http://someguydoingstuff.wordpress.com/2010/12/03/testing-out-light/

Rembrandt - Self Portrait