We are unable to perceive colours in places where light is absent. We can see colours only where there is light. Light emitted by the source of illumination (the light source) strikes the surface of objects. Some of it is absorbed, and the rest is reflected and reaches our eyes. This is what enables us to see objects and to perceive their colours. The fact that we see colours because only a portion of the light striking objects is reflected means that the colours we perceive are greatly influenced by the characteristics of the light that illuminates them. In other words, it is essential that we give consideration to the lighting environment in which we see colours.