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Build a Better Cast Shadow

By , About.com Guide

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Base Cast Shadows on Imaginary Light Source

Position of light source affects shadow color.

Longer shadows tend to be lighter in color while short shadows or the area closest to the object casting the shadow tend to be darker.

© J. Bear
Unless you are intentionally creating a fantasy world that breaks the rules of light and shadow, cast your shadows using a reasonably placed imaginary light source based on reality.

Cast your shadow opposite the light source. Light sources that shine down almost from directly above tend to create shorter shadows. Lights more to the side of an object make longer shadows. A bright beam creates a more pronounced shadow while low light or diffused lighting results in softer shadows.

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