Which light is primarily used to lighten shadows without altering the main light’s character?

The fill light is used specifically to lighten shadows created by the key light without changing its character. In a typical three-point lighting setup, the key light is the primary source of illumination that shapes the subject and establishes the scene's overall mood. However, this can also result in unwanted shadows that may obscure details or create an uneven look.

The fill light serves to counterbalance these shadows without overpowering or altering the effects of the key light. It does this by providing softer, indirect light that enhances visibility in shadowy areas, ensuring that the subject remains well-defined. This approach maintains the intended drama or style created by the key light while enhancing the overall visibility of the subject.

Other types of lighting, like back light or background light, serve different purposes. The back light adds depth and separation from the background, while background light illuminates the area behind the subject, contributing to the overall aesthetics and atmosphere but not specifically addressing shadows created by the key light. Thus, the fill light is essential in achieving balanced lighting in video production, as it enhances details without compromising the desired character of the primary light source.