Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Mixed Media • Thumbnail Sketches • Wacom

Form Shadow

Term from Illustration industry explained for recruiters

Form shadow is a basic drawing and illustration technique where artists add shadows that follow the shape of an object to create depth and dimension. It's different from regular shadows because it closely hugs the form of the object, making images look more three-dimensional and realistic. Think of it like the shadow you'd see under a ball sitting on a table - it helps show where the object sits in space. This technique is especially important in product illustration, character design, and commercial artwork.

Examples in Resumes

Created product illustrations using Form Shadow techniques to enhance depth

Applied Form Shadow and Cast Shadow methods in character design projects

Developed educational materials teaching Form Shadow principles for beginner artists

Typical job title: "Illustrators"

Also try searching for:

Commercial Artist Product Illustrator Digital Artist Technical Illustrator Character Designer Concept Artist

Where to Find Illustrators

Online Learning Communities

Professional Networks

Job Resources

• Indeed Illustration Jobs
• Creative Jobs Central

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you approach teaching form shadow techniques to junior artists?

Expected Answer: A senior artist should discuss their mentoring experience, ability to break down complex concepts into simple steps, and methods for explaining light behavior and shadow placement to beginners.

Q: How do you integrate form shadows in different artistic styles?

Expected Answer: They should explain how form shadows can be adapted for various styles from realistic to stylized, and how they adjust the technique for different client needs and project requirements.

Mid Level Questions

Q: Can you explain your process for planning form shadows in a complex illustration?

Expected Answer: Should describe their workflow for analyzing light sources, determining shadow placement, and how they maintain consistency across multiple objects in a scene.

Q: How do you handle form shadows in different lighting conditions?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of how different light sources affect shadow intensity and placement, and how to adjust shadows for various lighting scenarios.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the difference between form shadows and cast shadows?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that form shadows follow the shape of the object itself, while cast shadows are created when an object blocks light from reaching another surface.

Q: How do you determine where to place form shadows on basic shapes?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic understanding of light direction and how it affects where shadows appear on simple forms like spheres, cubes, and cylinders.