What is a lower third in a television production?

A lower third is primarily recognized as a graphic element displayed on the lower third of the screen, which serves to identify a speaker or provide additional information during a television production. This graphic typically contains the name of the person speaking and often includes their title or role, helping viewers understand who is presenting information or speaking on camera. This practice enhances audience engagement by providing context and identification, which is especially important in news broadcasts and interviews where multiple individuals may be featured.

The other options, while related to television production in different aspects, do not accurately describe what a lower third is. A title for the entire production would be presented differently and usually occupies a more prominent position on the screen. A commercial break marker serves a different purpose, indicating transitions in programming rather than providing information about on-screen talent. Lastly, film lighting equipment pertains to aspects of production that deal with the visual quality of the content but is not related to on-screen graphics.