Shadows in Perspective

Shadows cast either by the sun or by an artificial light source, can be constructed using perspective techniques.

Shadows in perspective are generated by choosing a light source and positioning a Shadow Vanishing Point (SVP) directly underneath it.

Lines drawn from the Light Source through the top points of an object to intersect lines draw from the SVP through the bottom points of an object determine shadow length and direction. The ends or edges of the shadows created by the intersections are drawn by projecting back to the normal Vanishing Points.

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Note: The two points can be any distance above and below the horizon but a low light source will create long shadows and the height of the SVP will dictate whether shadows are cast in front of or behind the object.

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