There is some confusion why to paint shadows transparent and lights opaque. A lot of information can be found on the internet but in my opinion, with far too complicated philosophies. It mainly comes down to two reasons and I will try to explain why this tradition for me is essential.
A picturesque reason: Transparent shadows have a rich quality, opaque shadows just don´t work.
A technical reason: It is much easier to get a good connection to a shadow when the applied paint in the shadow is little. (Painting a portrait I start with the darks, then the halftones and then the lights; an important routine) See also here.
Hartelijk dank weer Ben voor de wijze lessen. Vanmiddag proberen in praktijk te brengen! Succes met je werk daar!!! en nog een goede zondag!
vriendelijke groet mar