shadows, especially when used at a distance. A softbox or umbrella reflector is much
more diffused and soft.
Use the type of light and its distance to control the light on your subject. If you want
sharp, dark shadows, use a directional source, such as a photoflood or direct flash,
relatively far from the subject. If you want soft or no shadows, use a broad light
source, such as a softbox or umbrella reflector, close to the subject.
A softbox provides a very soft and diffused illumination. The light scatters over the
subject from many directions providing almost shadowless lighting. Photographers
often use a softbox or an umbrella reflector to produce the natural look of a broad,
diffused window light (see Figure 21.8).314 ABSOLUTE BEGINNER’S GUIDE TODIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY
FIGURE 21.8
Diffused illumi-
nation created
from diffused
light coming
from the right
of the object.A floodlight or direct flash produces directional lighting (see Figure 21.9). Notice how
dark and hard edged the shadows are compared to the photo above.