ALWAYS display shadow UNDER character (3d platformer)??

[Qbanyto]

I'm working on a 3d platformer. What is the best way to display a shadow on the ground UNDER the character regardless of lighting position? this is essential for 3d platformers and I'm wondering how to implement this. Perhaps using a ray cast? and move the "shadow object" to where the hit is detected?

For that matter, what should the shadow made of? a 3d object? with a feathered/transparent type of shader?

Thanks guys!

[ToxicFrog]

You could have a directional light above the character, and use the Culling mask to only affect the Player and Ground layers