Hard light is characterized by which of the following?

• A. It comes from large, diffused sources and creates soft shadows.
• B. It comes from small, intense light sources and creates dark, crispy shadows.
• C. It produces no shadows.
• D. It always flatters the subject.

Answer: (B)

Hard light is defined by its directional, high-contrast look, producing sharp-edged shadows. This happens when the light source is small relative to the subject or is used without diffusion, so the rays arrive from a tight angle and don’t wrap around the subject. The result is crisp, dark shadows with more texture and definition, often giving a dramatic or edgy feel. Direct sun on a clear day or a bare bulb without a diffuser are classic examples of this kind of light.

That’s why this description is the best fit: it highlights both the small, intense source and the resulting dark, crispy shadows. In contrast, large diffused sources soften shadows; a scenario with no shadows isn’t consistent with hard light; and hard light isn’t guaranteed to flatter, since it can emphasize textures and imperfections.