The Direction of Light
From Andy Evansen
Let's dive into something fascinating in the world of painting: the direction of light. As we know, the sun transforms everything it touches, casting shadows and creating highlights. We can understand and use this to our advantage.
When painting, the direction of light can significantly enhance the visual interest of our work and finished piece. Think about early morning or late afternoon when shadows are long and the light is soft. These times of day are ideal for capturing reference photos or starting a painting because the light creates dramatic effects that are visually appealing.
One key technique is connecting shadow shapes. Have you ever noticed how shadows can link different objects together, like a tree’s shadow merging with the shadow of a nearby bench? In painting, connecting these shadow shapes can help simplify your scene. It’s similar to assembling puzzle pieces; when the shadows connect, it creates a cohesive and unified composition.
On the other hand, flat light, which occurs during midday or on overcast days, can be challenging to work with. Flat light makes everything look the same, without distinct shadows or highlights. This kind of lighting can make your painting more difficult because it lacks the clear light and shadow sides that help define forms and add depth. It’s like trying to draw in a room with the lights off—everything blends together, making it hard to distinguish individual elements.
Backlighting and sidelighting are two lighting techniques that can significantly impact your painting. Backlighting occurs when the light source is behind the subject, creating strong silhouettes. This effect simplifies forms and creates striking contrasts. Think of a sunset where people appear as dark shapes against a bright sky. Sidelighting, where the light hits the subject from the side, creates a clear division between the light side and the shadow side. This technique adds depth and dimension, making your painting appear more three-dimensional and dynamic.
While working on your painting, it’s important not to overload your composition with too much detail. Focus on either the light areas or the shadow areas for your details. If both are packed with details, the painting can become confusing and overwhelming. Think of it like a story: if there’s too much happening all at once, it’s hard to follow and appreciate the main elements.
Light can be your best ally in painting. It helps you see and depict forms in a more interesting and engaging way. To capture the best light, try taking reference photos early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Look for opportunities to connect shadow shapes and avoid working under flat, midday light. Experiment with backlighting and sidelighting to add drama and depth to your paintings. By understanding and utilizing the direction of light, you can create more compelling work.
Andy Evansen offers a variety of ways to immerse yourself in the world of watercolor. Join him below: