How to create a video lighting kit for under $100 bucks!

We know that not everyone has top-of-the-line light equipment at their disposal all the time, but we also know that you know need top notch lighting kits to make people look amazing on camera. As nice as it would be to have all of that, budgets can be tight. It’s as simple as going to your local Home Depot and shelling out about $100 dollars.

The goal of a lighting kit is to eliminate shadows and create, soft, flat lighting on the subjects face. As a reference you can use this diagram to help you set up the shot.

Be sure to keep the 2 key lights right above the subject’s eye-line. The light facing the background will help to create contrast and hide the subject’s shadow.

The List

In order to get the best out of your home lighting kit you want to spend the most on your bulbs. Look for day-light balanced bulbs with a high CRI (color render index). This will help to get the highest quality and most flattering light possible.

Home Depot:

• (x3) Clip Lights – $9 ea
• (x3) Daylight Color CFL Bulbs (buy different wattage options for flexibility) – $2.75 ea
• (x3) Spring Clips – $2 ea
• (x3) 12ft Extension Cords – $2.50 ea
• (x1) Package of Clothespins – $2.50 ea