Purchase the necessary lighting equipment for your video project. If you are creating a simple video, a standard three-point lighting kit including a key light, a fill light and a back light will be efficient. Dramatic videos may require additional lighting, such as strobe lights, colored gels and other equipment.
Keep a light reflector on set. A light reflector is usually a square or circle made with silver/white fabric. You may apply aluminum foil to a large piece of cardboard to use as a reflector if you cannot afford a professional reflector. Although light reflectors are not mandatory for video shoots, having a reflector on hand helps when direct light is too harsh.
Set up your lighting equipment based on the organization of the scene. Run through the scene with the actor to establish camera marks and to determine where the actor will be located throughout the scene.
Position the key light on one side of the camera at a 45-degree angle above or below the actor. Key lights are the brightest lights in your lighting kit. The wattage of key lights can vary according to the exact light type and model you have.
Place the fill light on the other side of the camera to prevent unnecessary shadows on the actor's face. This light is dimmer than the key light, and you should position it at an angle to help reduce shadows. Experiment to find the correct angle for the fill light.
Place a back light directly behind the actor to help separate the actor from the background. Point this light toward the top portion of the actor. Back lights provide a dim halo around the silhouette of the actor, which can provide a dramatic touch in to darker scenes.
Review the lighting in the camera monitor. If you find the lighting is too harsh or you wish to create a dimmer atmosphere, bounce light off reflectors. Place a reflector between the key light and the actor. Turn the key light so the main beam of light is reflecting off the reflector and onto the actor. Repeat this process for the fill light if necessary. This will eliminate direct lighting to create softer edges and a more natural glow.