SOFT LIGHTS
BOUNCE IT FOR SOFTER RESULTS
Bouncing your light source off a plain wall or ceiling, or using a large reflector, is a great way to soften the light output. The light source is aimed away from your subject, then it bounces off the reflective surface, ‘becoming’ the light source. Of course, the light takes on the colour of whatever it’s bounced into, so best avoid brightly coloured surfaces. Or use a purpose-made reflector, which comes in all sizes, shapes and finishes. You can buy huge, colour-corrected silks stretched over purpose-made aluminium frames, or more portable pop-up circular and triangular ones. Some have removable covers in different finishes, too. So it’s important to understand the differences between each and how they can be used most effectively. Just like with a normal light, the relative size of the light compared to the subject, plus how it is diffused, is a key factor in how hard the light output is. For example, a large reflector will give the effect of a larger secondary light source and wrap around the subject more. An important factor in a reflector is how efficient its surface is at bouncing light. A shiny, silver metallic reflector acts like a mirror, but this can be too much and the light can be harsh. A white fabric reflector is less efficient and gives a more subtle effect. Gold or gold/ silver combo reflectors give a warm look. And for beauty shots, often a soft overhead light is used and a reflector under the model’s face to fill in any shadows. Just experiment and don’t be afraid to try new things.
IMAGES A large reflector wraps around the subject more, while often soft overhead lights are used for beauty shots
“A shinymetallic reflector acts like a mirror, but this can be toomuch”
41
PROMOVIEMAKER.NET
Powered by FlippingBook