Which lighting condition produces soft shadows that appear less defined?

Diffused light is responsible for producing soft shadows that appear less defined. This type of lighting occurs when the light source is scattered or spread out, as opposed to being focused in a particular direction. When light is diffused, it softens the edges of shadows, creating a more gradual transition between light and dark areas. This characteristic is often enhanced by using modifiers like softboxes or umbrellas, which help to break up the harshness of direct light sources.

In contrast, direct light tends to create sharp and well-defined shadows because it comes from a single point source with little to no interruption. Reflective light can also be bright and focused, contributing to more pronounced shadows than those produced by diffused light. Overhead light, depending on its intensity and characteristics, might lead to shadows that can be defined but may not achieve the same softness as those created by diffused lighting. The key takeaway is that the scattering of light in diffused light leads to the softer shadow effect, providing a more flattering and less harsh aesthetic in photography.