PPT Slide
shadows, reflections & atmosphere
The geometry of natural (solar) shadows is one of the most complex perspective constructions because of the many possible arrangements of light source, shadow casting edge and shadow receiving surface in relation to the viewpoint. The basic rules of perspective shadows explains the consistent features — the light plane and surface plane — that define all shadows.
The shadows from solar light can be classified into nine types, depending on the orientation of the shadow casting edge and shadow receiving plane. These shadow types provide the foundation for constructing shadows from local lights, such as outdoor and interior lighting fixtures.
Reflections create complex perspective problems, especially if the reflecting surface is curved. I explain plane reflections — as from a mirror, or the surface of a large body of water — and briefly describe the reflections from rippling water and curved reflecting surfaces such as a metallic globe.
This page and the pages linked to it comprise the most extensive treatment of linear perspective available online, and one of the most comprehensive tutorials available in any textbook currently in print. New edition, revised and expanded 03/2007