In Action, shadows are not cast by lit objects; shadows are cutouts based on a surface's matte. This type of shadow is referred to as a drop shadow. A drop shadow can be fully opaque or slightly transparent to simulate a real shadow.

To add a drop shadow:

1. Select the surface that you want to use.
2. Do one of the following:
   • Drag the shadow node from the node bar and place it in the schematic. An axis and a shadow are created and linked together.
   • Drag the shadow node from the node bar to the Result view, so you can see its effect on the scene before placing it exactly where you want.
   • Double-click the shadow node. An axis and a shadow are created and linked together. You do not need to be in Schematic view to add a node in this manner.

   If a surface node is selected in the schematic, the axis of the shadow node is automatically connected to the surface.