"That...last...part is what confuses me. How can light be made into something solid?" Padmé has been through enough to realize the use of a shield. For herself and others.

The manipulation of light is just as useful as the shield she quickly realizes - thanks to his display. Unless someone (or something) doesn't rely on their eyes.

"And the spells are unchanged?" she can't keep the marvel out of her voice and she doesn't try. He has clearly put a lot of practice into his skills.