Direct light
With direct light, whether you use a ceiling light, a spot light or a desk lamp, the light is directed with intensity on the work space of the object that is being lit.
The area covered by the light varies in function of the shape, and the size of the reflector. It varies also in function of the distance between the source of light and the area receiving the light. The further away the source of light is, the larger the zone of light is, but the lesser the intensity.
Advantages of direct lighting are that it is effective, and suitable for accent lighting. It can be used to one's advantage in creating light and shadow pattern, making striking designs.
One drawback derives from the advantage listed above, that it is intense in some areas, even blinding at times and its creates shadowy areas. Harsh shadows are not always flattering.
Indirect light
This kind of light does not shed light directly on a zone or object. It creates a mood. It is done by using lamps with opaque reflectors that redirect the beam of light, normally a wall or a ceiling.
The lighter the reflective surface is, the more it will redirect light. You should be careful however, with shiny surfaces that are too reflective, as the light can be blinding. You can also provide an indirect lighting by using a light bulb known as a silver bowl bulb. The silver coating blocks the light and reflects it back to the fixture, the wall or the ceiling.
Advantages of indirect lighting are that it created a suitable environment for work, reflective glare from screens is easier to control, and it more flattering to human beings. The biggest disadvantage is that contrast in the room is reduced, and the light is not very effective, but it can be used effectively in design elements.
Diffused light
Being able to diffuse light allows us to reduce the brightness of the source, the luminance. You can then look directly at the lamp without being blinded. It produces a lighting effect that is softer with more nuances.
Different type of materials can be used to diffuse light, frosted glass, translucent plastic, fabric, even paper as long as the light can pass through the material in an homogenous fashion. Even a glass block wall could be a source of diffused light.
Mixed Lighting
Some lamps can produce a mixed lighting that offers several modes of light transmission. For example a lamp with a translucent shade produces direct light , indirect and diffused, a lamp with an opaque shade will produce direct light below, and indirect above. A wall fixture with an open diffuser can give both indirect and diffused light.
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