Light radiates in all directions from a small point source, traveling outward in straight lines.
A small light source, such as a bare lightbulb or candle, produces hard light characterized by deep shadows and sharp edges.
Similarly, the sun in a bright sky has a comparable effect due to its great distance, making it appear as a small point source.
Small lamps and torches can create similar lighting effects. To observe this, try using a small desk lamp.
Only the parts of the subject directly within the light’s path are illuminated, while other areas remain in darkness. However, placing tracing paper into the light beam changes this.
Tracing paper allows light to pass through but also diffuses it. The light that passes through scatters in new straight lines from each part of its large surface. This results in softer, more graduated shadows. The larger your diffusing material, the softer and less contrasted the shadows become. This is because the light from a large area is not completely blocked by the subject, so previously dark areas receive some illumination. This effect is similar to sunlight on a cloudy day, where clouds act as diffusers, spreading the light over a larger area.
In practical photography, it’s crucial to recognize the differences between direct, hard, soft, and scattered lighting, as well as the intermediate stages.
Shadow qualities significantly influence the appearance of subjects and scenes.
Remember, this is not something you can adjust in a photograph by changing the camera settings or through further manipulation, although some digital post-production programs now offer various lighting effects that you can add.
