Part 1: Building Your DIY Reflector
Here are a few options for building reflectors, ranging from the super simple to a slightly more robust approach:
Option 1: The Simple Foam Core Reflector
* Materials:
* Foam Core Board: White or Silver (available at craft stores, art supply stores, or even dollar stores). A larger size (20x30 inches or bigger) is generally better. You can also get Black Foam Core board for flags or gobo's to block light.
* (Optional) Aluminum Foil or Mylar Blanket: For a stronger, specular (shiny) reflection.
* (Optional) Glue Stick or Spray Adhesive: To adhere foil/mylar.
* (Optional) Painters Tape or Clamps: For attaching the reflector to a stand or chair.
* Construction:
1. White Reflector: If you bought white foam core, you're basically done! You can use it as is.
2. Silver Reflector: If you want a silver reflector, lightly coat one side of the foam core with glue stick or spray adhesive. Carefully smooth the aluminum foil or mylar blanket onto the glue, trying to minimize wrinkles (though some texture is okay).
3. Black Reflector/Flag: Use the Black foam core as is.
* Pros: Cheap, easy to make, lightweight, portable. White is great for soft, natural fill light. Silver is brighter and adds more contrast. Black can be used to block or flag light to create shadows.
* Cons: Can be flimsy, not very durable, silver surface can be a bit harsh.
Option 2: The Cardboard & Fabric Reflector
* Materials:
* Large Cardboard Sheet: (From a large box)
* Fabric:
* White Muslin or Broadcloth: For soft, diffuse reflection.
* Silver Reflective Fabric (e.g., lining fabric): For brighter reflection.
* Gold Reflective Fabric (e.g., lining fabric): For warm reflection.
* Black Fabric (e.g., felt): to block light and create shadows.
* Scissors or Utility Knife:
* Glue (Fabric Glue or Hot Glue Gun):
* (Optional) Staple Gun: For extra secure attachment.
* (Optional) Grommets and String/Bungee Cord: For attaching to a stand.
* (Optional) Spray Paint (White or Black): To coat the cardboard so no color peeks through the fabric.
* Construction:
1. Prepare the Cardboard: Cut the cardboard to the desired size and shape (oval or rectangular is common). Spray paint the cardboard so the fabric won't have the cardboard color peek through.
2. Cut the Fabric: Cut the fabric slightly larger than the cardboard.
3. Attach the Fabric: Apply glue to the cardboard and carefully smooth the fabric over it. Pull the fabric taut as you go to avoid wrinkles. Wrap the edges around to the back and glue/staple them in place.
4. (Optional) Mounting: If you want to mount it on a stand, reinforce the corners with extra cardboard and attach grommets. You can then use string or bungee cords to attach the reflector to a light stand.
* Pros: More durable than foam core, customizable with different fabrics, can be mounted on a stand.
* Cons: More time-consuming to build, slightly heavier.
Option 3: The Folding Car Sunshade Reflector
* Materials:
* Folding Car Sunshade: The reflective silver type.
* (Optional) White Fabric or Paper: To diffuse the reflection (tape or clip on).
* (Optional) Clamps: To hold it in place.
* Construction:
* Mostly Pre-Built: Just unfold the sunshade.
* Diffusing the Light: If the silver is too harsh, cover it with a layer of white fabric or paper. Secure with tape or clips.
* Pros: Extremely portable, already reflective, inexpensive.
* Cons: Silver reflection can be harsh, shape is fixed, not very durable.
Part 2: Using Your Reflector for Portraits
Here's the key to using your reflector effectively:
1. Understanding the Goal: A reflector's primary purpose is to bounce light back onto your subject, filling in shadows and creating a more even, flattering light. It's essentially creating a "second light source."
2. Light Source is Key: You *need* an existing light source. The sun, a window, or even a lamp. The reflector *redirects* that existing light.
3. Positioning: This is the most important part!
* Generally: Position the reflector on the *opposite side of the main light source* from your subject. Imagine a triangle: light source -> subject -> reflector.
* Angle: The angle of the reflector is critical. Experiment! A shallow angle will bounce more light. A steeper angle will bounce less. Have your subject look at the reflector and tell you when they see the light reflected in their eyes. That's a good starting point.
* Distance: The closer the reflector is to your subject, the brighter the reflected light will be. Move it closer or further away to adjust the intensity of the fill light.
* Eye Catchlights: Look for a nice catchlight (a highlight) in the subject's eyes. The reflector should create a catchlight that complements the main light's catchlight.
4. Common Scenarios and How to Use a Reflector:
* Outdoor Portraits in Sunlight:
* Sun Behind Subject (Backlit): Use the reflector in front of the subject to bounce sunlight back onto their face, preventing them from being a silhouette. A gold reflector can add warmth.
* Sun to the Side: Use the reflector on the opposite side of the sun to fill in the shadows.
* Overcast Day: An overcast day acts as a giant softbox. A reflector can still be useful to add a subtle lift and brighten the face.
* Indoor Portraits by a Window:
* Subject Facing the Window: Place the reflector below the subject's face, angled upwards, to fill in shadows under the eyes and chin.
* Subject to the Side of the Window: Position the reflector on the opposite side of the window to balance the light.
* Using Artificial Light (e.g., Speedlight/Flash):
* Off-Camera Flash: Use the reflector to bounce the flash's light back onto the subject, creating a softer, more natural look than direct flash.
5. Types of Reflections and When to Use Them:
* White Reflector: Soft, natural, subtle fill. Great for general use, especially for fair skin.
* Silver Reflector: Brighter, more contrast, more specular (shiny). Good for adding punch to your image or for darker skin tones. Be careful of harsh reflections.
* Gold Reflector: Adds warmth (golden/yellow tones). Nice for portraits with warm skin tones or when you want a golden hour effect. Use sparingly, as it can be overpowering.
* Black Reflector/Flag: Doesn't reflect light. It *blocks* light. Use it to subtract light and create deeper shadows or reduce lens flare.
6. Practice and Experiment: The best way to learn how to use a reflector is to practice. Take photos with and without the reflector to see the difference. Experiment with different angles, distances, and reflector surfaces.
Tips for Success:
* Keep it Steady: Wind can be a problem outdoors. Use clamps, weights, or an assistant to hold the reflector in place.
* Watch for Glare: Be mindful of reflections in glasses or shiny surfaces. Adjust the angle of the reflector to minimize glare.
* Subtlety is Key: The goal is to *fill* shadows, not to create a second, overpowering light source. Adjust the reflector until the light looks natural.
* Communicate with Your Subject: Let your subject know what you're doing and why. Ask them for feedback on the light.
* Edit Accordingly: You can further refine the light in post-processing.
In summary, a DIY reflector is a fantastic and affordable tool that can dramatically improve your portrait photography. By understanding the principles of light and practicing different techniques, you can create stunning, professional-looking portraits.