We have already looked at the first four elements of design: line, shape, form and texture. Let’s explore the role that light plays exposing shape, form and texture.
See for Yourself
To understand the role that light plays in the elements of design, something you can do is get a flashlight and find a darkened place. It does not have to be pitch black, you just need to be able to see shadows when you shine the flashlight on your subject. The darker the room, the better you will be able to see the shadows.
Find some three dimensional objects that are not smooth and put them in front of you. Turn on the flashlight and point it at your object from your perspective. There should be few or no shadows.
Then put the flashlight to the left or right of your subject and and shine it on your subject. Leave the flashlight there and go back to your original position. The object now appears to have form (three dimensions).
While the flashlight is still in that position, look at the shadows that the uneven surface of your object creates. The side-lighting is also reveals texture.
To show shape, you will have to put the flashlight behind your object and then go back at your original position. When you look into the light, it may be difficult to make out the details of the object and you may just see its shape (silhouette).
This exercise with a flashlight is exactly what I did in the video below. Try it out for yourself!
