Shading / Light sources - why is this important in woodburning

Light and Shadows define an object but it is more complicated than that. Try to think of an object like this, it is never simply in light or in shade but  in an environment where light is bouncing in different locations.

I use this guide I found at artistnetwork.com

As in life, it is not just Black and White or even grey, there are different values to White, Black, or any color. There is highlights, direct light, reflective light, shadow, core shadow, and cast shadow.

Before you begin to shade you should identify the following:

• Light source: The direction from which the greatest of light originates. The placement of this light source affects the aspect of a drawing.
• Look for the lightest or brightest part of the object - this will be your highlight- any part that will directly receives light from the light source
• The reflected light (indirect light) is when light is bouncing off the object

• Shadows: The areas on an object that receive little or no light.
• Cast shadow: The dark area on the surface where the light is blocked by the solid object. (this will be your darkest burn)

• Core Shadow: This is where light and dark meet - it will mimic your object and darken quickly

HOW does this relate to woodburning? EVERYTHING!! If you do not have "depth" your woodburnings will not be realistic or have that 3-d effect. 

This is a project where shadow is important for realism

As you see from this project shading and light source comes from all angles. 

Keep each one separate- from the water and how the waves cause shadow to the trees in the back cast shadow