Description
Understand how light defines form. Every 3D object you draw becomes believable only when lit correctly. This exercise teaches you the core zones of light and shadow that appear on any rounded surface under any light source.
Steps
- Draw a simple sphere or egg shape
- Choose a single light source direction โ mark it with a small arrow outside the shape
- Identify and shade five zones:
- Highlight โ the brightest point, closest to the light (leave white or very light)
- Midtone โ the gently lit area transitioning away from light
- Core shadow โ the darkest band, where the surface turns away from light most sharply
- Reflected light โ a slightly lighter edge within the shadow (light bouncing off nearby surfaces)
- Cast shadow โ the shadow the object throws onto the surface below it
- Blend the light zones smoothly; keep the cast shadow's edge relatively sharp
Tips
- Keep your light direction consistent โ every shadow must agree with the same source
- The core shadow is usually darker than the cast shadow โ don't make them the same value
- The reflected light should be lighter than the core shadow but still darker than the midtone
- Squint at your drawing โ the light and dark masses should read clearly even blurred