What characterizes hard light in photography?

Hard light in photography is characterized by sharp shadows and high contrast. This occurs when the light source is relatively small and direct in relation to the subject. For example, sunlight on a clear day can produce a hard light effect, casting strong, defined shadows on the ground or on the subject itself. The high contrast enables photographers to create dramatic effects, enhancing textures and highlighting specific features. This type of lighting is often utilized in portrait photography to add depth and dimension to a subject, as the stark differences between light and dark areas can make the subject stand out.

In contrast, options describing soft shadows and even tones correspond more closely with soft light, where the light source is diffused, producing gentle shadows and lower contrast. Low light conditions refer to the overall quantity of light rather than its quality, which does not specifically define hard light itself. Lastly, even lighting across all subjects would suggest a lack of shadows and contrast, thereby not aligning with the defining traits of hard light.