How to Light for a Product Shot
- 1). Set the main, or "key," light at a 35-degree angle above the subject and at a 45-degree angle to camera side of the subject. As a rule of thumb, place the key light four feet to the side of the subject; distance can vary slightly based of the strength of the light.
- 2). Arrange the fill and backlight. Set the fill light directly in front of and level with the subject. Position an overhead backlight one foot behind the subject.
- 3). Set a 3:1 distance ratio for the fill and backlight to the main light. For example, working with a key light four feet from the subject requires the fill and backlights be placed 12 feet away from the subject -- 4 x 3 = 12.
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