Inverse Square Light Drop-Off

Lux falloff, f-stop loss & intensity ratio as distance changes.

Lux is measured at Dist 1 and projected to Dist 2.

Intensity at Dist 2
250 Lux
−2.0 stops
Relative light remaining
25% of D1100% at D1
Doubling distance = 4× less light (−2 stops). Move lights closer, don't just crank power.
Did you know?
The inverse square law is why the Sun's surface is blindingly bright but delivers gentle warmth at 150 million km — distance is a silent light killer.

Formula

Intensity₂ = Intensity₁ × (Dist₁ / Dist₂)²

FAQs

Why the 4× drop?
Light spreads over a 2D surface area, so doubling distance quadruples the area the light must cover.