Which of the following describes negative fill?

• A. Negative fill adds light to the foreground.
• B. Flags create color gels.
• C. Negative fill reduces light on the shadow side to control contrast and texture.
• D. Backdrops increase spill.

Answer: (C)

Negative fill means subtracting light from the scene, usually on the shadow side, to control contrast and texture. By using flags, black cards, or other blocking tools to absorb or block light that would otherwise bounce onto the subject, you reduce fill light and allow shadows to stay deeper. This creates more definition and a more dramatic, sculpted look. It’s about removing light rather than adding it, so it’s not about color gels or backdrops affecting spill.