Prior to 1616, Jordaens had been interested in the bright, clear palette of Mannerism. However, in this image, he experiments with using light, rather than color, as the primary means to mold figures in space. This is evidence of his interest in Caravaggio. The principle light source in "The Adoration of the Shepherds" is a candle held by St. Joseph. This reflects influence of Adam Elsheimer, who is known for placing a light source in the centre of his compositions. Perhaps another influence of Caravaggio may be cited in Jordaens' use of realism. "The Virgin and Child are rendered in rustic simplicity, and are not even slightly idealized."