Light may also be classified by its direction with relation to the subject. There are four of these classifications for light (natural or artificial).

Overhead high contrast - harsh shadows This is a typical example of the harsh shadows that result when the sun is high in the sky. When it is necessary to shoot at this time of day, flash "fill" can help.

Front flat, lacks depth, dimension

Side good for bringing out textures, defining shapes The side lighting brings out the texture of the petals and emphasizes the cactus spines.

Overcast (clouds filtering sun) lower contrast, good for details, fewer shadows The diffused light from an overcast or partly cloudy sky allows you to see the details of the coyote's expression and the variety of shades in his fur.

Another characteristic of light is the quality, often defined as "hard" or "soft." Hard light is very bright, resulting in sharp shadows, while soft light is diffused, displaying better range of details, as with the Overcast condition mentioned above.