Hence, you'd want to measure the distance between the top of the table, and your eye level. Also, you'd want to do this while being seated. Once you have the measurement, simply shop accordingly. If you are buying the third type of Elvis Presley lamp, then the height is not a big concern. Just buy something that's proportionate to the desk or table. When buying a standard type, the height of the lamp is important. Thankfully, you can follow the eye-level rule to ensure that you don't get the lamp with the wrong height. The general idea of this rule states that the bottom part of the lampshade should not be higher when compared to the user's eye-level. The purpose of this is simple. If the lampshade is higher, then your eyes will have a direct line-of-sight to the bulb. This can be a source of discomfort because of the intense brightness of the light.