Shadow control and basic volumetrics

Use simple 3D lights and shapes to build shadows that describe volume and support a paint-over.

What it is

You use simple 3D geometry to block in cast shadows and form shadows before painting. Place and aim a light, then check whether the shadows show where planes turn in space.

Work with rough proxies such as boxes for buildings, stretched cylinders for limbs, and a rough bust for a head. Adjust the light's height and direction as you test how shadows fall across each form.

Manage shadow hardness and intensity for an exported pass. Balance soft penumbra, the gradual edge of a shadow, with firmer core shadows. Keep enough value information for hand-painted nuance.

Why it matters

Shadow control helps a 3D pass describe forms and provide a sound light structure for painting. Weak control can create flat forms, shadows that cut across faces and props, or dark areas that lose detail.

You can check it when

✓Set up boxes, cylinders, and spheres, then light them so one still frame shows each form through its shadow pattern.
✓Adjust light angle and distance until shadows on key areas, such as faces or focal points, follow the forms without creating confusing breaks.
✓Check an exported lighting pass for shadows that are dark enough to read while retaining form detail for painting.
✓Vary shadow softness deliberately, with softer edges across distance and sharper edges at contacts.

Shadow control and basic volumetrics

What it is

Why it matters

You can check it when

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