Hard gradation is a photographic term used to describe images with strong, abrupt tonal transitions and high contrast. In such images, the shift between shadows, midtones, and highlights is pronounced, resulting in a bold and dramatic appearance.
Hard gradation is often created by direct or harsh lighting and can be used deliberately for artistic effect or visual impact. Understanding hard gradation helps photographers control contrast and mood, allowing them to produce striking images or adjust lighting and exposure for softer tonal transitions when needed.