What are the characteristics of direct lighting?

Direct lighting is defined by its method of illumination, where light is directed straight at a surface or area without any intermediate diffusion or reflection. This results in a clear and focused beam of light that effectively lights up specific objects or areas. The characteristic of illuminating by shining light onto surfaces aligns precisely with how direct lighting functions—it provides high visibility and clarity of detail in the areas it targets.

Looking at the other options, inducing glare and shadows is a result of how direct lighting can sometimes be harsh if not well-placed, but it's not a defining characteristic. Similarly, illuminating a space indirectly through reflectors is more associated with indirect lighting techniques, which aim to soften and disperse light rather than deliver it directly. Lastly, creating softer shadows and diffused lighting is characteristic of diffused or indirect lighting rather than direct lighting, which tends to produce more pronounced shadows due to the focused nature of the light.