Editing Three-point lighting (section)

=== Fill Light ===
[[File:3-point lighting.ogv|thumb|An animated demonstration of three-point lighting|thumbtime=0]]
The ''[[fill light]]'' also shines on the subject, but from a side angle relative to the key and is often placed at a lower position than the key (about at the level of the subject's face). It balances the key by illuminating shaded surfaces, and lessening or eliminating [[chiaroscuro]] effects, such as the shadow cast by a person's nose upon the rest of the face. It is usually [[Soft light|softer]] and less bright than the key light, up to half the amount. Not using a fill at all can result in stark contrasts (due to shadows) across the subject's surface, depending upon the key light's harshness. Sometimes, as in [[low-key lighting]], this is a deliberate effect, but shots intended to look more natural and less stylistic require a fill.

In some situations a photographer can use a reflector (such as a piece of white cardstock mounted off-camera, or even a white-painted wall) as a fill light instead of an actual lamp. Reflecting and redirecting the key light's rays back upon the subject from a different angle can cause a softer, subtler effect than using another lamp.