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The quality of the light is determined by numerous factors. The position of the light, the size of the light, the distance of the light to the subject and the strength of the light.
The larger the light-source, the softer the cast shadow edges and the light to shadow transitions will be. Conversely, the smaller the light-source the harder the light to shadow transitions and cast shadow edges will appear. The size of the light in relation to the model appears to change if the distance changes. The sun, for example, is huge but is also far away, so the effect is of a small source (hard shadows).
Closer light-sources give more drop off (gradation) while more distant light-sources have a more even (flatter) effect. I use strobe lights (equal to 600 watts per light). I would use a small softbox at about 4-5 feet from the subject to capture that look of a small window that is typical of a Vermeer. I would also use a fill light close to the camera position, very diffused. I don't, as previously stated, like using a reflector panel. Too inexact for me.
Vermeer's main light was positioned more to the side.
There are many variables. You have to experiment until you get the look you're after.
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