DIY: How to Build and Use a Reflector for Better Portraits
A reflector is an essential tool for portrait photography, whether you're shooting indoors or out. It's a simple device that bounces light onto your subject, filling in shadows and creating a more even and flattering light. Buying a professional reflector can be expensive, but you can easily and cheaply make your own! This guide will walk you through building one and using it effectively.
Part 1: Building Your DIY Reflector
There are several ways to build a reflector. Here are two options:
Option 1: Simple Foam Board Reflector
This is the easiest and cheapest option.
Materials:
* Foam Board: White is the most common and versatile. You can also get black (for subtracting light), silver, or gold, but white is a great starting point. Choose a size that's manageable, around 20" x 30" is a good starting point. Larger sizes offer more reflection but are harder to handle alone.
* (Optional) Silver or Gold Foil/Paper: For adding warmer or cooler tones (more advanced).
* (Optional) Spray Adhesive or Double-Sided Tape: To apply the foil/paper.
* Scissors or Utility Knife: To cut the foam board.
* Tape (Painter's tape or gaffer's tape): For securing the reflector.
* Stand or Clamp (Optional): For holding the reflector in place.
Instructions:
1. Cut to Size (Optional): If your foam board is too large, trim it to a manageable size.
2. (Optional) Apply Foil/Paper: If you want a silver or gold reflector, carefully apply the foil or paper to one or both sides of the foam board using spray adhesive or double-sided tape. Ensure it's smooth and wrinkle-free for even light reflection. A slightly crumpled foil surface can create a softer, less harsh reflection.
3. That's it! Your reflector is ready.
Option 2: Collapsible Car Sunshade Reflector
This option is slightly more involved but results in a more portable and durable reflector.
Materials:
* Collapsible Car Sunshade: Choose a reflective silver one.
* Black Fabric (like felt or fleece): Enough to cover the back of the sunshade.
* Sewing Machine (Optional): Hand sewing works too, but is more time consuming.
* Thread: Matching the black fabric.
* Scissors: For cutting fabric.
* Pins: To hold the fabric in place.
* (Optional) Velcro Straps: To keep it folded.
Instructions:
1. Cut the Fabric: Cut the black fabric slightly larger than the car sunshade.
2. Pin the Fabric: Pin the black fabric to the non-reflective side of the sunshade. This will prevent light from spilling out the back of the reflector.
3. Sew the Fabric (or Glue/Tape): Sew (or carefully glue/tape) the fabric around the edges of the sunshade, securing it firmly. Sewing creates a more durable bond.
4. (Optional) Add Velcro Straps: Add Velcro straps to the reflector to keep it neatly folded when not in use.
5. Your Reflector is Ready!
Part 2: Using Your Reflector for Portrait Photography
Now that you have your DIY reflector, let's learn how to use it effectively.
Understanding Light and Shadows:
Before you start, understand how light behaves. The reflector's job is to bounce existing light into shadowed areas. Observe the natural light source (sun, window, lamp) and the shadows on your subject's face. This will help you determine where to position the reflector.
Steps for Using Your Reflector:
1. Position Your Subject: Place your subject in the desired location, considering the direction of the light source.
2. Identify the Shadowed Areas: Look at your subject's face and identify the areas that are in shadow (usually under the chin, around the eyes, and on the side opposite the light source).
3. Position the Reflector: This is the key. Hold the reflector (or have an assistant hold it) on the *opposite* side of the main light source, angled to bounce light *into* the shadowed areas. Experiment with the angle and distance to find the sweet spot.
* Closer to the Subject: The reflected light will be brighter and more intense.
* Further from the Subject: The reflected light will be softer and more subtle.
* Angled Upward: Can help fill in shadows under the eyes and chin.
* Angled Downward: Can create a highlight on the forehead.
4. Observe the Effect: Look through your camera's viewfinder or at the LCD screen to see how the reflector is filling in the shadows. Adjust the position of the reflector until you achieve the desired effect.
5. Take the Photo: Once you're happy with the lighting, take the photo!
6. Experiment! Reflector placement is key to getting the result you want. Don't be afraid to try different angles and distances.
Tips for Using a Reflector:
* Start Subtle: It's better to start with a subtle reflection and gradually increase the intensity as needed. Overly bright reflected light can look unnatural.
* Watch for Catchlights: The reflected light will create a small highlight in your subject's eyes (catchlights). This adds life and sparkle to the photo. Make sure the catchlights are in a pleasing position.
* Diffused Light is Best: Reflectors work best with diffused light. On a sunny day, try using the reflector in open shade or on a cloudy day. Direct sunlight can create harsh reflections.
* Use an Assistant: Having an assistant hold the reflector makes it much easier to position it precisely and allows you to focus on taking the photo.
* Practice, Practice, Practice: The more you use your reflector, the better you'll become at predicting its effect and achieving the desired results.
* Consider the Color Cast: Silver reflects a cooler light, while gold reflects a warmer light. This can affect the overall color balance of your photo. White is the most neutral.
* Wind: In windy conditions, reflectors can be difficult to manage. Use clamps or have your assistant hold it securely.
* Safety: When using a reflector outdoors, be mindful of reflecting sunlight into people's eyes.
Different Types of Light and Reflector Use:
* Overcast Day: A reflector can brighten the subject's face and add more dimension to the image.
* Open Shade: A reflector can bounce light into the subject's face, filling in shadows and creating a more balanced exposure.
* Backlit Subjects: A reflector can bounce light back onto the subject's face, preventing them from being underexposed.
* Indoor Lighting: Reflectors can be used to bounce light from a window or lamp, creating softer and more flattering lighting.
Beyond the Basics:
* Experiment with different colors: Gold reflectors can add warmth to skin tones, while silver can create a cooler, more dramatic look.
* Use a diffuser: If the light is too harsh, you can use a diffuser to soften it before it hits the reflector. This will create an even more subtle and pleasing effect. A thin white sheet or shower curtain can act as a diffuser.
By following these steps and practicing regularly, you can master the art of using a reflector to dramatically improve your portrait photography and create stunning images! Good luck and have fun!