Which lighting technique is commonly used to create depth?

• A. Backlighting
• B. Three-point lighting
• C. Flood lighting
• D. Side lighting

Answer: (B)

Depth in a shot comes from how light shapes the subject and separates it from the background. A three-point lighting setup uses three positions to sculpt the subject: the key light provides the main direction and form, the fill light softens the shadows created by the key to reveal detail, and the backlight (rim light) sits behind the subject to create a bright edge that helps separate them from the background. This combination adds dimension and makes the subject pop against the background, creating a sense of depth that flat lighting can miss. Using only a single light—like backlight or side light—tends to emphasize one aspect and can flatten the image, while broad flood lighting washes out contours. Three-point lighting gives you control to model the subject and establish depth consistently.