Which lighting pattern features a triangle of light under one eye?

• A. Rembrandt
• B. Butterfly
• C. Loop
• D. Split

Answer: (A)

The main concept being tested is how the angle and height of the light shape the shadows and highlights on the face to create recognizable portrait lighting patterns. In Rembrandt lighting, the key light is placed about 45 degrees to the subject’s side and slightly above eye level. That position makes the shadow from the nose sweep across the cheek and leaves a small triangle of illumination under the eye on the lit side. The triangle is formed where the nose shadow meets the cheek highlight, with the apex toward the nose. This distinct triangular patch is the hallmark of Rembrandt lighting, giving a dramatic, sculpted look. Other patterns produce different shapes—like a butterfly-shaped highlight under the nose, a loop-shaped shadow on the cheek, or a sharp split where one side of the face is lit and the other is dark—so the triangle under the eye specifically signals Rembrandt style.