Top and side views of a photographer's setup for a product shoot are shown in the figure. P is the primary light source, S is the secondary light source, R is the reflector and Q is the camera position. If the Primary Light Source is at 100% intensity, and the secondary light is at 25% intensity, which one of the given options is the photograph taken using this setup?
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In lighting analysis, first locate the key light by finding the brightest highlights. The shadows will be on the opposite side. Then, assess the darkness of the shadows to determine the presence and strength of a fill light. Soft, detailed shadows mean a fill light is present.
Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question tests the understanding of a standard three-point lighting setup in photography.
P (Primary/Key Light): The main, strongest light source. It defines the main highlights and shadows. Here, it is positioned high and to the front-left of the subject.
S (Secondary/Fill Light): A weaker light source used to "fill in" and soften the dark shadows created by the key light. Here, it is positioned to the right of the subject.
R (Reflector): Bounces some light back onto the subject, also helping to soften shadows. It is also on the right side.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Based on the setup, the resulting photograph should have the following characteristics:
The main illumination and brightest highlights should be on the surfaces facing the primary light P (i.e., the top and left sides of the objects).
Shadows should be cast away from P, towards the bottom-right.
These shadows should not be completely black. They should be softened (made lighter) by the weaker secondary light S and the reflector R, which are both on the right side.
Let's analyze the options:
Option A: Shows very dark, hard shadows on the right side. This suggests there is no fill light or reflector, only a strong key light.
Option B: The main light source appears to be on the right, casting shadows to the left. This contradicts the setup diagram.
Option C: This image perfectly matches the expected lighting. The highlights are strongest on the top and left of the vase and cups. Shadows are cast to the right, and they are soft and contain detail, indicating the presence of the fill light and reflector.
Option D: The lighting is very soft and diffuse, with almost no defined shadows. This might be achieved with a large softbox or an overcast sky, not the specific hard light setup shown.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Option C correctly depicts the lighting effects of the described photographic setup.
