DIY: Build & Use a Reflector for Better Portrait Photography
A reflector is a simple yet incredibly effective tool for portrait photography. It bounces light back onto your subject, filling in shadows and creating a more flattering and professional look. Instead of buying an expensive one, you can easily build your own!
Part 1: Building Your DIY Reflector
Here are a few options, from simple to slightly more involved:
Option 1: The Simplest - Foam Board Reflector
* Materials:
* White foam board (large size, like 20" x 30" or larger)
* Optional: Silver, gold, or black wrapping paper/foil/cardstock (for different effects, see below)
* Tape (painter's tape or masking tape)
* Utility knife or scissors (if modifying the size)
* Instructions:
1. Choose Your Size: A larger board will reflect more light, but is also more cumbersome. Start with a standard foam board size. You can cut it down if needed.
2. White Reflector (Simplest): The white foam board is ready to use as is! It provides a soft, neutral fill light.
3. Colored Reflector (Optional): If you want a different effect, cover one side of the foam board with:
* Silver: Brighter, more specular (direct) light. Use aluminum foil or silver wrapping paper. Wrinkling the foil slightly can diffuse the reflection.
* Gold: Warmer, golden-toned light. Use gold wrapping paper or cardstock.
* Black: Absorbs light; used for subtracting light or creating shadows. Use black paper or cardstock. This acts as a "negative fill."
4. Attach Covering (If Applicable): Carefully tape the chosen material to one side of the foam board, smoothing out wrinkles as much as possible.
5. Reinforce (Optional): Tape the edges of the reflector to prevent the facing from peeling up.
Option 2: Cardboard Box Reflector (More Durable)
* Materials:
* Large cardboard box (flattened)
* White, silver, gold, or black paper/foil/cardstock (as above)
* Strong tape (packing tape)
* Utility knife or scissors
* Optional: Reflective Mylar blanket (emergency blanket) for a very strong silver reflection
* Instructions:
1. Flatten the Box: Flatten the cardboard box and cut out a large rectangle of the desired size.
2. Cover the Box: Cover one side of the cardboard with your chosen material, taping it securely. The cardboard provides a more rigid and durable base.
3. Reinforce: Tape the edges well to prevent tearing.
Option 3: DIY 5-in-1 Reflector (Most Versatile)
This option is a little more involved but provides the most versatility. It mimics the commercial 5-in-1 reflectors by being reversible with multiple coverings.
* Materials:
* Circular or rectangular wire wreath frame (found at craft stores) - This forms the base. Choose a size that's manageable for you.
* White fabric (old sheet or muslin works well) - Cut a piece slightly larger than the frame.
* Silver, gold, black fabric, or reflective material (as above) - Cut these pieces to the same size as the white fabric.
* Sewing machine or needle and thread
* Elastic (thin)
* Scissors
* Optional: Zipper (to make the covers removable)
* Instructions:
1. Sew the White Diffuser: Sew a simple tube with the white fabric, slightly smaller than the circumference of the wire frame. This will be the base layer. Slip the fabric tube over the wire frame. Sew elastic along the open edges, pulling it tight as you sew to create a gathered, tight fit around the frame.
2. Create the Reversible Covers: Sew each of the other fabrics (silver, gold, black) into tubes the same size as the white fabric. You can choose to make these removable using a zipper along the edge, or sew them together back-to-back (e.g., silver on one side, gold on the other) to create double-sided covers.
3. Attach Covers (if not using zippers): If not using zippers, sew elastic along the edges of each cover, just like you did with the white diffuser. These covers will slip over the white diffuser, allowing you to quickly switch between reflective surfaces.
4. Black Blocking Fabric: If you are using black fabric, you can simply sew it into a square that is larger than the frame and hold it behind your subject, instead of making it a cover.
Part 2: Using Your DIY Reflector for Portrait Photography
Now that you have your reflector, it's time to use it to improve your portraits!
1. Understanding the Light:
* Key Light: The main light source illuminating your subject (e.g., the sun, a window, or a flash).
* Shadows: Areas of darkness created by the key light. Reflectors are used to fill in these shadows.
* Fill Light: Light bounced back by the reflector to soften shadows and add detail.
2. Positioning the Reflector:
* Angle and Distance: This is crucial! The angle and distance of the reflector affect the amount and quality of light that bounces back. Experiment!
* Placement: Typically, you'll position the reflector on the opposite side of your subject from the key light source.
* Holding the Reflector: You can:
* Have a friend hold it.
* Lean it against something (chair, wall, etc.).
* Use a reflector stand (if you want to get fancy - you can find inexpensive ones online).
* Common Positions:
* Below the subject's face: Helps fill in shadows under the eyes and chin, creating a flattering effect.
* To the side of the subject's face: Softens shadows on the opposite side of the face from the key light.
* Above the subject's head (angled down): Works well in situations where the light is coming from above, like at midday. Be careful not to cast new, unflattering shadows.
3. Choosing the Right Reflector Surface:
* White: Soft, neutral fill light. Good for general use.
* Silver: Brighter, more specular light. Use with caution, as it can be harsh if not used correctly. Good for adding a catchlight to the eyes or when you need a powerful fill. Wrinkling the surface helps diffuse the light.
* Gold: Warmer, golden-toned light. Flattering for skin tones, especially in cool or overcast conditions. Use sparingly, as too much can make the skin look unnatural.
* Black (Negative Fill): Absorbs light. Use to increase contrast or create more dramatic shadows. Position it to the side of your subject to deepen the shadows on that side.
4. Practice and Experiment!
* Take test shots: Observe the effect of the reflector in different positions and with different surfaces.
* Adjust the angle and distance: Small adjustments can make a big difference.
* Pay attention to the catchlights in the eyes: These small reflections of light make the eyes sparkle.
* Consider the ambient light: The existing light will affect how the reflector performs.
Tips for Using a Reflector Effectively:
* Don't overdo it: The goal is to *fill* shadows, not eliminate them entirely. Too much fill light can make the image look flat and unnatural.
* Be aware of reflections: Watch out for unwanted reflections in glasses or other surfaces.
* Consider the background: The reflector can also illuminate the background slightly, so be mindful of what's behind your subject.
* Work with your subject: Communicate with your subject and let them know what you're trying to achieve. Adjust the reflector's position based on their feedback.
* Use in combination with other lighting techniques: Reflectors work well with natural light, strobes, and speedlights.
Example Scenarios:
* Outdoor Portrait in Shade: Place the subject in the shade and use a white reflector to bounce light back onto their face, filling in shadows and creating a more even exposure.
* Portrait on a Cloudy Day: A gold reflector can add warmth and color to the skin, making the subject look healthier.
* Portrait in Direct Sunlight: Carefully position a silver reflector to add a subtle catchlight to the eyes without overexposing the skin. Consider using a diffuser to soften the harsh sunlight.
Building and using a reflector is a simple and affordable way to dramatically improve your portrait photography. With a little practice, you'll be able to control the light and create beautiful, flattering images. Good luck!