Shading is a photographic technique used during printing to selectively block light from reaching specific areas of the paper, allowing the exposure to be modified locally. By controlling which parts of the print receive more or less light, photographers can enhance details, balance highlights and shadows, and achieve a more visually pleasing image.
Shading is commonly used in darkroom printing, especially with enlargers, to correct uneven lighting, emphasise subjects, or subtly adjust tonal values. Mastery of shading helps photographers produce prints with greater depth, contrast, and artistic control.