Core shadow

Plural: core shadow

Core shadow definition

The darkest part of the form shadow on an object, located where the surface turns most directly away from the light source.
A band or area of reduced light that separates the light family from the reflected light within the shadow family.

Examples

On a sphere, the core shadow appears as a dark curved band opposite the light source.

In a portrait, the core shadow is often visible along the cheek where the face turns away from the light.

Context

The core shadow is part of the shadow family and plays a key role in describing form. It is not the cast shadow, but a feature of the object itself. It helps define volume by marking the transition between light and shadow, while still allowing reflected light to exist deeper in the shadow area.

Core Principles

Derivation

The core shadow is part of the shadow family and plays a key role in describing form. It is not the cast shadow, but a feature of the object itself. It helps define volume by marking the transition between light and shadow, while still allowing reflected light to exist deeper in the shadow area.

See also