Which lighting method is specifically used to reduce shadows?

Fill lighting is specifically used to reduce shadows in a scene. This lighting method works by illuminating the darker areas of the subject that may be obscured by the key light, which is usually the primary source of light in a setup. By strategically placing fill lights, a more balanced and natural appearance can be achieved, ensuring that important features are visible without harsh contrasts that create distracting shadows.

In the context of lighting techniques, backlighting typically creates a silhouette effect, which can enhance depth but does not effectively reduce shadows. Stage wash refers to a uniform coverage of light over a stage area, primarily used for general illumination rather than shadow reduction. Key lighting, while essential for highlighting the subject, can often create shadows if not balanced with additional light sources like fill light. Therefore, fill lighting plays a crucial role in achieving an evenly lit scene by softening or eliminating shadows, making it the optimal choice for this purpose.