Part 1: Building a DIY Reflector
There are several ways to build a reflector, ranging from super simple to slightly more involved. We'll focus on the easiest and most effective methods.
Method 1: The Foam Core Reflector (Easiest and Most Popular)
* Materials:
* Foam Core Board: A large sheet of foam core board is your base. Get it at an art supply store, office supply store, or even some craft stores. White is a great all-purpose reflector. You can also buy silver, gold, or black foam core, or get white and then cover it with fabric, foil, or paper.
* Optional: Silver/Gold Craft Foil or Reflective Fabric: (If you want to make a silver or gold reflector). You can find this in the craft store.
* Optional: Spray Adhesive (If using foil/fabric): For adhering foil/fabric to the foam core.
* Scissors or Utility Knife: For cutting the foam core.
* Tape (Masking, Duct, or Gaff Tape): For reinforcing edges (optional) and securing foil/fabric.
* Construction:
1. Choose a Size: The size depends on what you want to shoot. A larger reflector will produce softer and wider light but can be harder to handle. Common sizes are 20x30 inches, 30x40 inches, or even larger (40x60 inches) if you have an assistant. Smaller size is great for headshots.
2. If Keeping White: No modification is needed, just use as is! You can cover the edges with tape for protection and better durability.
3. If Creating Silver/Gold (or other color): Carefully cut the foil/fabric slightly larger than the foam core surface.
4. Adhere Foil/Fabric (If Applicable): In a well-ventilated area, lightly spray the foam core with spray adhesive. Carefully lay the foil/fabric onto the board, smoothing out any wrinkles. Alternatively, you can use double sided tape, but make sure you work slowly and carefully!
5. Trim Excess (If Applicable): Once the adhesive is dry, trim any excess foil/fabric with scissors or a utility knife.
6. Reinforce Edges (Optional): Tape the edges of the reflector with masking, duct, or gaff tape for added durability.
Method 2: The Cardboard Box Reflector (Recycled Option)
* Materials:
* Large Cardboard Box: A refrigerator box or similarly sized large cardboard box is ideal.
* White, Silver, or Gold Material (See Method 1): Again, your choice of reflective material.
* Spray Adhesive or Tape: For attaching the reflective material.
* Scissors or Utility Knife: For cutting the cardboard.
* Construction:
1. Cut and Flatten: Carefully cut open the cardboard box along its seams and flatten it out.
2. Shape/Size: Cut the cardboard into the desired reflector shape and size. A rectangle is easiest. You can also cut out a larger shape and then use a smaller sheet or piece of cardboard to fold behind it as a stand.
3. Apply Reflective Material: Follow steps 3-6 from Method 1 to attach the white, silver, or gold material to one side of the cardboard.
Method 3: The Folding Car Sunshade Reflector (Portable)
* Materials:
* Folding Car Sunshade: The kind that's silver on one side and sometimes has a foam backing.
* Optional: White Fabric/Paper: For diffusing the silver side.
* Tape or Clips: To secure the fabric/paper.
* Construction:
1. Use as Is (Silver Reflector): The silver side is ready to go!
2. Diffuse (Soften the Light): To soften the silver reflection, tape or clip a layer of white fabric or paper over the silver side. This makes a softer, more flattering light.
Which Color to Choose?
* White: Creates a soft, neutral, and natural-looking fill light. It's the most versatile and forgiving.
* Silver: Provides a brighter, more specular (harder) light than white. Good for adding a crisp highlight and more contrast. Can be too harsh in bright sunlight.
* Gold: Adds a warm, golden glow to the subject's skin. Great for portraits in cooler environments or for a sun-kissed look. Use sparingly; too much can look unnatural.
* Black: Doesn't reflect light; it *absorbs* it. Useful for blocking unwanted light or creating shadows. Can add drama and shape to your portraits. (Often called a "flag").
Part 2: How to Use a Reflector for Portraits
Now that you have your reflector, let's use it to improve your portraits!
1. Understand Fill Light: The primary purpose of a reflector is to create *fill light*. Fill light softens shadows and reduces contrast in your images. It brightens the darker areas of your subject's face, making them more visible and less harsh.
2. Positioning is Key:
* Identify the Light Source: First, identify your main light source (the sun, a window, or a flash).
* Position the Subject: Place your subject with the main light source illuminating one side of their face.
* Position the Reflector: Place the reflector on the *opposite* side of the subject, angled to bounce light back into the shadow areas of their face.
* Angle for Best Effect: The angle of the reflector is crucial. Experiment by slightly tilting the reflector until you see the shadows on the subject's face start to soften and fill in. You want a natural-looking fill, not a second bright light source.
3. Distance Matters:
* Too Close: If the reflector is too close, the fill light can be too bright and create a "hot spot" on the subject's face.
* Too Far: If the reflector is too far, it won't provide enough fill light to make a difference.
* Ideal Distance: Start by placing the reflector about 2-4 feet away from the subject and adjust from there.
4. Shooting Indoors with Window Light:
* Window light is fantastic for portraits.
* Position your subject near the window.
* Place the reflector on the opposite side of the window to bounce the window light back onto the subject's face.
5. Shooting Outdoors in Sunlight:
* Avoid Direct Sunlight: Direct sunlight is often too harsh for flattering portraits. Try to find open shade (shade that is lit by reflected sunlight) or position your subject with their back to the sun (and use the reflector to bounce light onto their face).
* Use a Diffuser (Optional): If you can't avoid direct sunlight, consider using a diffuser (a translucent panel that softens the light) in addition to the reflector. You can also use the foamcore as a diffuser.
* Experiment with Angles: Sunlight changes throughout the day. Adjust the angle of the reflector to compensate for the changing light.
6. Working Alone vs. with an Assistant:
* Assistant: Having an assistant to hold the reflector is ideal. They can adjust the angle and distance more easily, and you can focus on taking the picture.
* Alone: You can use a reflector stand (available online or at camera stores), clamp the reflector to a light stand or tripod, or even prop it up against a chair or wall. You can also use your knees to angle and hold the reflector.
7. Take Test Shots: Before you start shooting a series of portraits, take a few test shots with and without the reflector. Examine the results on your camera's LCD screen to see how the reflector is affecting the light. Adjust the position, angle, and distance as needed.
8. Pay Attention to Catchlights: Catchlights are the highlights in your subject's eyes. They add life and sparkle to portraits. The reflector can create a second catchlight, so be mindful of its position. Usually, one clear catchlight is preferred.
Part 3: Tips for Better Reflector Use
* Be Subtle: The goal is to create natural-looking light, not to overpower the main light source. Don't overdo the fill light.
* Experiment with Different Surfaces: Try different materials for your reflector to see what kind of light they produce. A piece of white poster board, a silver emergency blanket, or even a crumpled piece of aluminum foil can all create interesting effects.
* Consider the Background: The background is also affected by your reflector. Be sure the reflection isn't hitting the background, causing unwanted light or shadows.
* Practice, Practice, Practice: The more you use a reflector, the better you'll become at understanding how it affects the light and how to position it for the best results.
* Diffusing Direct Sunlight: If you're shooting in bright sunlight, consider using a larger diffuser instead of a reflector. A diffuser will soften the light and create a more even illumination, while a reflector can often create harsh highlights.
* Wind: if shooting outdoors and it is windy, the reflector can act like a sail. Use something to secure it, or have your assistant prepare for a workout!
Beyond Portraits: Reflectors aren't just for portraits. They're also useful for product photography, still life photography, and even video.
By following these steps, you can build and use a reflector to create beautiful, flattering portraits. Good luck!