What term describes blocking stray light to maintain subject isolation?

• A. Diffusers
• B. Flags
• C. Backdrops
• D. Negative fill

Answer: (B)

Blocking stray light to keep the subject isolated is done with flags. Flags are opaque panels mounted on stands that physically intercept light paths, preventing unwanted light from spilling onto the subject, camera lens, or background. This keeps the subject visually separated by controlling what light reaches other areas, improving contrast and reducing flare. In a studio, you place flags between the light and areas you want to keep dark or between the light and the lens to stop stray rays from causing glare. They come in various sizes and shapes to fit different setups. Different tools serve other purposes: diffusers soften and spread light, backdrops provide a background, and negative fill uses dark surfaces to absorb light and deepen shadows rather than block stray light.