Last post I discussed the “golden hour.” In this post, I’ll be discussing reflectors and how to use them to reflect light to your subject.
What is a reflector? According to the trusty Wikipedia, a reflector is an improvised or specialised reflective surface used to redirect light towards a given subject or scene.
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Why use a reflector in your photography? I use a reflector to bounce light to fill the shadows in my subject’s face and illuminate their eyes (add a ‘sparkle’). This reduces shadows (raccoon eyes) and controls contrast.
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Kinds of reflectors: Reflectors vary in size, color and reflective material used. You can use a simple and inexpensive white poster board or a 5-in-1 reflector. Sometimes I’ll even wear a white shirt. =) I’ve also used white sheets or blankets.
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How to use / hold a reflector: Often times I will have an assistant (much easier) hold my reflector….or I can hold a reflector on my own while placing it under my arm and kicking it out with my knee or scrunching it up with one hand and holding it out (this takes some practice!). My 5-in-1 reflector is round and fits into a small fabric case. When opened, it pops out to a larger size. The larger the reflector, the more light it can bounce. Most of the time I use the white surface and hold it close to my subject’s face. The closer (and larger) it is, the softer the quality of light, and more flattering. On a cloudy day, I may use the silver side of the reflector (often times amplifies the light better). I usually stay away from the gold side (I’m not a fan of this ‘tan’ look). While holding the reflector, you move it around your subject until you see their face illuminated. You’ll also see the ‘catch light’ in their eyes. This give the eyes some ‘sparkle’ as well. You’ll see the circle (or whatever shape you’re using) appear in their eyes. If I used a triangular reflector, I would see a triangle in their eyes.
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Here is an example (you can see what light source I used…the circle of the reflector in her eyes):
Have fun experimenting with reflective surfaces!
Next newsletter, I’ll discuss…..Diffusing Light.