Cookies, Nets, and Solids

What are the differences between a cookie, a net and a solid? What are 2 different uses for them on set? If you had to ask someone to go grab a net or a flag out of the cart, how would you describe the difference to them?

Cookies are cut out in a way that creates patterns of with lights and shadows. A net, on the other hand, cuts the amount of light through wired frames. A solid, also known as a flag, completely cuts out light to specifically caste a shadow on certain parts of the scene. Cookies can add interesting patterns to a bland background. A net can create a much softer shadow in comparison to a solid flag. The main difference between these is the patterns it creates and the harshness of the shadows.