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Using reflectors to solve lighting problems for portraits
Summary: Digital cameras produce high quality images in optimum lighting conditions. Portrait photographers use reflectors to solve problem lighting situations. There are economical and highly effective alternatives that can provide excellent results. Learn about these tips and techniques from a veteran portrait photographer.
Digital cameras perform best when there is adequate light. Using
reflectors to add light to your subject is an uncomplicated and
inexpensive way to add a professional touch to your photos. Reflected
light is simply light reflected from any source on to a subject.
The use of reflected light to fill shadow areas in a
photograph will improve contrast and, if used creatively, add a warming
effect to skin tones.
Types of reflectors
Visit a photo store and you will find an assortment
of reflectors in a variety of brands. Most of these products work
well and offer durability and convenience. They are often high
priced and considered a luxury to photographers on a budget.
There are many modestly priced alternatives that
will perform just as well if not better for the creative portrait
photographer.
Practical application
Flexible reflectors, sometimes three feet in diameter, with a shiny or
metallic colored coating in silver, gold or white are a photographer's
prized possession.
An alternative to the official "photo" product would
be a flexible sun reflector used to protect the dashboard and interior
of a car.
These modestly priced reflectors are available at most
discount department stores in the automotive section.
White poster board, available at most supermarkets
or drug stores, can provide an even light source when used as a
reflector.  | | Use a reflector to add fill light to a subject's face. Direct the light from the reflector toward the subject. |
Some colors of poster board can even correct the
"blue" color shift in skin tones of photos taken in shade.  | | In this digital photo, the reflector hepls balance the lighting on the face with the strong backlight. |
A
white poster board will add neutral light to correct the color
shift. Add aluminum foil or the gold/silver mylar tissue paper,
found in most wrapping paper storage areas around the house, and the
"blue" tint will disappear.
There are many times you can use the reflected light
from you natural surroundings in a creative manner. As an
example, the direct light, reflected from sand, snow, water and other
neutral colored surfaces can brighten low contrast or dimly lit
situations.
Inventive and creative soultions
Using a reflector is easy. The results can be
dramatic. The following tips and techniques have worked well to
solve problem lighting situations.
Positioning your camera lens through a hole in a
sheet of poster board provides even light on the face of a backlit
subject.
A piece of art board covered with aluminum foil
intensifies the reflected light to add shimmer and sparkle to the eyes
of the subject.
The flexible dashboard and interior protector is a
durable, effective and alternatively priced option as a photographic
reflector. It can also double as a neutral background for a
simple head and shoulders portrait.
Keys to success:
- Reflected light lightens shadow areas
- Alternative reflector types
- Practical applications
- Creative and effective use
Many portrait photographers will often utilize many of these same
techniques with these "not so exotic" items to reduce excess baggage
when traveling on assignment.
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Good photographs begin with good light. In the digital photography world, the quality of light corresponds to the quality of the photograph. The dramatic light of the early morning and late afternoon can raise the quality of your images. In poorly lit situations use supplemental lighting from the camera's flash in the fill-flash mode.
• more tips & tricks
Adobe's Photoshop is very expensive at nearly $700, Is it worth it?
Dear PS,
Adobe's Photoshop is very expensive at nearly $700, Is it worth it?
On the cheap in Oregon
Dear On the cheap,
Yes! If you plan to take creative steps in dealing with your images, photoshop and the lastest Creative Suite 2 are simply the best and most efficients image handling programs available. Is it "worth it" to you, that depends on what you hope to achieve with your images. I would suggest the Elements version of photoshop as an entry level position. Better yet, check a local computer store or even the Apple Store an invest a little time in attending a couple of their tutorial classes for a "test drive" of the program. Then you'll be better informed before you spend your money.
Thanks for your question,
Michael at PS
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 Michael E. Keating is an award winning portrait photographer...
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