How many lights do I need for filmmaking?

A minimum of two lights produces professional-looking results for interviews and talking-head videos. Three lights enable full three-point setups for narrative work. Most independent filmmakers work effectively with 3-5 lights total — one or two key/fill panels, one or two accent/hair lights, and a background light. Start with a two-light panel kit (like Neewer 660), add an Aputure 60X as your primary key light when budget allows, and pick up pocket RGB lights for accent work.

What is more important for video quality — camera or lighting?

Lighting. Dramatically so. A $500 camera with professional lighting produces better-looking footage than a $5,000 camera with bad lighting. Lighting controls the mood, depth, skin tone quality, and professional feel of every frame. This is why film sets have entire lighting departments. For aspiring filmmakers, invest in lighting first. A $150 two-light kit improves your footage more than upgrading from a $500 camera to a $1,500 camera. Once your lighting is solid, camera upgrades provide incremental (but real) improvements.

Best Filmmaking LED Lights 2026