The diffracting objects considered are opaque and semi-transparent objects of known cross section which are situated in an otherwise transparent area and illuminated with a collimated quasi-monochromatic beam of light. The plane in which the resultant diffraction pattern is considered is at a sufficient distance from the object for the approximation of Fraunhofer (far field) diffraction to be made whilst still remaining in the near field of the surrounding transparent area. The resultant intensity distribution is investigated both theoretically and experimentally for objects which present both circular and rectangular cross sections to the beam.