Three Point Lighting

Recognized as the standard for achieving a beautiful and effective presentation, 3-Point-Lighting contains the following:

• Key - this is the primary light source. Usually a spotlight, it is placed above and to the left or right of the camera. If filming outdoors, direct sunlight can serve as a key light.
• Fill - controls falloff, contrast, and attached shadows. This is most often a flood light placed on the opposite side of the camera from the key light, or if outdoors, a reflector.
• Back light - also called a "halo" or a "kicker", this provides separation between subject and background - generally a spot placed behind the subject opposite the camera.

Note: sometimes a fourth light is used to add drama and interest to what is behind the subject. This is called a background light and is placed on the same side of the camera as the key light.