# Shadows

## **Shadow Modes** There are two types of Shadow Modes. ### **Shadowing Mapping** Looks great and has fast performance, uses Parallel and Spot lights. ### **Ray-Traced** Is more accurate but can take more computer resources, uses all AE lights.

## How To Setup Element objects can cast Shadows on to other Element objects. See [**Matte Shadow**](/element2/composing-element-3d/using-matte-shadow-plane.md) for how to cast a shadow from your object on to your AE background. In this case we’ll select a sphere and plane model from the Primitives Tab in the Scene Setup. You can use the Anchor Points to move the objects into place. Scale the Plane large fairly large, as this will catch the shadow. Hit OK to go back to After Effects.

Go to Layer/Create New/Light at the top AE Bar. For instant results change the Light Type to Parallel or Spot, as Shadow Mapping is set by default and can use those light types.

Go to the Element effect panel Render Settings/Shadows and click Enable. We did it!

{% hint style="info" %} **TIP** You can turn off certain objects from either Casting Shadows or Receiving Shadows. Sometimes it’s best to turn off the bottom plane to not Receiving Shadows. {% endhint %} --- # Agent Instructions: Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter: ``` GET https://video-copilot.gitbook.io/element2/render-settings/shadows.md?ask= ``` The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.