Term
Terminator
Meaning
The terminator is the line on a lit form where light stops reaching the surface and shadow begins. On a sphere lit from one side, it runs around the form between the bright side and the core shadow. It matters because the soft or sharp quality of the terminator tells the viewer whether a surface turns gently, like a cheek, or abruptly, like the edge of a jaw. A single consistent light direction keeps terminators believable. See also: Core shadow, Reflected light, Value and the guide "Torso, Mannequins and Light on Form: Building Solid Figures".