Which type of lantern provides a broad, unfocused spread of light?

The flood lantern is designed specifically to produce a wide and unfocused beam of light, making it ideal for illuminating large areas. This type of lantern does not have lenses that refine the light output, allowing it to cast a broad wash of light without creating sharp edges or defined beams. This characteristic is particularly useful for scenes that require general lighting or when lighting large spaces where details are less important.

The other lantern types typically have distinct functionalities that cater to more focused lighting needs. For instance, a Fresnel lantern provides a softer, but still somewhat focused light due to its lens design that enables some control over the beam spread. A follow spot is intended for tracking performers with a concentrated beam, perfect for spotlighting individuals on stage. Profile spots, meanwhile, also create sharp, well-defined light beams, often used for producing specific shapes or patterns. These differences underline why the flood lantern stands out for its broad and unfocused light spread compared to the other options.