No light, no image: lighting is what reveals shapes, volumes and materials. It is one of the biggest factors in a good-looking render.

The types of lamp

• Point: casts light in every direction, like a light bulb.
• Sun: parallel rays, like daylight; its intensity does not fall off with distance.
• Spot: a directed cone of light, like a stage spotlight.
• Area: a soft glowing surface, ideal for studio-style lighting.

A simple method

A classic technique is three-point lighting: a strong key light, a softer fill light to lift the shadows, and a back light to separate the subject from the background.

Key takeaway: vary the intensity and position of your lamps. Good lighting turns an ordinary scene into a striking image.