Part 1: Building Your DIY Reflector
The beauty of this project is its simplicity and affordability. We'll focus on a collapsible, versatile design.
Materials You'll Need:
* Foam Core Board (White): A large white foam core board (usually 20x30 inches or larger) is a great base. It's lightweight and reflective. You can find these at craft stores, art supply stores, or even some dollar stores.
* Aluminum Foil (Heavy Duty): For a silver side reflector. Heavy duty is less likely to tear.
* Cardboard, Canvas, or Thick Fabric (Black or Dark Grey): To create a black or dark grey light blocking side
* Spray Adhesive (Optional, but recommended): For even and long-lasting adhesion.
* Scissors or Utility Knife: For cutting the foam core board and foil/fabric.
* Tape (Duct Tape or Gaffer Tape): Strong tape for reinforcing and creating a hinge.
* Clothespins or Clips (Optional): For holding the reflector in place.
Tools:
* Measuring tape
* Pencil or marker
* Cutting surface (like a cutting mat or scrap cardboard)
* Ruler or straight edge
Construction Steps:
1. Cut the Foam Core Board: Decide on the size you want your reflector to be. Smaller sizes are good for headshots and close-ups. Larger sizes are better for full-body shots. A good starting point is a 20x30 inch board. You can leave it as a single panel, or you can cut it into hinged segments for easier folding and portability (see Step 2). If you're cutting it, make clean, straight cuts.
2. Create Hinges (If Desired): If you want a foldable reflector, cut the board into two or three sections (equal or varying sizes). Leave a very small gap (1/8 to 1/4 inch) between the sections. Use duct tape or gaffer tape to connect the sections, creating hinges. Tape both the front and back for durability. This allows you to fold the reflector for storage and adjust its shape for directing light.
3. Prepare the Reflective Surface (Silver Side):
* Measure the surface area of one side of the foam core board section.
* Cut a piece of aluminum foil slightly larger than that area.
* If using spray adhesive, lightly spray the board surface and the back of the foil. Wait a few seconds for the adhesive to become tacky.
* Carefully apply the foil to the board, smoothing out any wrinkles or bubbles as you go. A credit card or plastic scraper can help with this.
* Trim any excess foil around the edges with your scissors or knife.
* Alternatively, you can tape the foil in place.
4. Prepare the Light Blocking Surface (Black or Dark Grey):
* Measure the surface area of one side of the foam core board section.
* Cut a piece of cardboard, canvas, or thick fabric slightly larger than that area.
* If using spray adhesive, lightly spray the board surface and the back of the fabric. Wait a few seconds for the adhesive to become tacky.
* Carefully apply the fabric to the board, smoothing out any wrinkles or bubbles as you go. A credit card or plastic scraper can help with this.
* Trim any excess fabric around the edges with your scissors or knife.
* Alternatively, you can tape the fabric in place.
5. The Other Side (White): Simply leave the foam core its natural white. This gives you a soft, subtle reflection.
Alternative Reflector Options (Even Simpler):
* White Cardboard: Just use a piece of white cardboard as is. It's simple, portable, and effective for soft light.
* Car Windshield Sun Shade (Silver): These are often collapsible and reflective.
* Blanket or Sheet: A white or light-colored blanket or sheet can work in a pinch, although it may not be as rigid or easy to position.
* Wall Reflector: In some situations, a nearby white or light-colored wall can act as a large, natural reflector.
Part 2: Using Your Reflector for Better Portraits
Now that you have your DIY reflector, let's talk about how to use it to improve your portrait photography.
Understanding Reflector Use: The Key Principles
* Fill Light: The primary purpose of a reflector is to *fill* in shadows. It bounces existing light (usually sunlight or artificial light) back onto your subject, reducing the contrast between the brightest and darkest areas.
* Directional Control: By angling the reflector, you control the direction of the reflected light, shaping the shadows and highlights on your subject's face.
* Light Quality: The surface of the reflector affects the quality of the light.
* White: Provides soft, diffused, and natural-looking fill light. Great for subtle shadow reduction and a gentle brightening effect.
* Silver: Provides a brighter, more specular (direct) reflection. Adds more punch and contrast. Good for situations where you need more light or want a more dramatic look. Be careful to not reflect direct sunlight or your subject will squint.
* Black or Dark Grey: Doesn't reflect light; instead, it *absorbs* it. Used to *subtract* light from specific areas, increasing contrast or creating shadows. Useful for adding depth or shaping the light for dramatic effect.
Steps for Using a Reflector:
1. Assess the Existing Light: Before placing the reflector, carefully observe the light falling on your subject. Where are the shadows? Where are the highlights? What is the overall mood of the light?
2. Position the Subject: Decide on your composition. Position the subject relative to the main light source. Consider the background and how the light interacts with it.
3. Position the Reflector: This is the crucial step! Here are some common scenarios:
* Sunlight Behind Subject: If the sun is behind your subject (creating a silhouette or strong backlight), position the reflector in front of them, angling it upwards to bounce sunlight onto their face, filling in the shadows.
* Sunlight to the Side: If the sun is coming from one side, position the reflector on the *opposite* side, angled to bounce light back towards the shaded side of their face.
* Overcast Day: Even on overcast days, a reflector can help. Position it below your subject's face, angling it slightly upwards to add a bit of brightness and lift the shadows under their eyes.
* Indoor Lighting: If you're using a window or a lamp as your light source, position the reflector to bounce that light back onto the subject, filling in shadows.
4. Angle and Distance: Adjust the angle and distance of the reflector until you achieve the desired effect. Experiment! Slight changes in angle can make a big difference. The closer the reflector, the brighter the reflected light.
5. Watch for Catchlights: Catchlights are the small highlights in your subject's eyes. Reflectors can create beautiful catchlights, adding life and sparkle to the eyes. Pay attention to where the catchlights appear and adjust the reflector accordingly.
6. Secure the Reflector: If you're working alone, you'll need a way to hold the reflector in place.
* Clothespins/Clips: Use these to attach the reflector to a stand, chair, or other object.
* Assistant: Ideally, have someone hold the reflector for you. This gives you more flexibility in adjusting its position and angle.
* Leaning: Lean the reflector against a wall, chair, or other support.
7. Take Test Shots: Take several test shots and review them on your camera's LCD screen. Zoom in to check the shadows and highlights. Adjust the reflector as needed until you're happy with the results.
8. Adjust Camera Settings: Adjust your aperture, shutter speed, and ISO to properly expose the scene, taking into account the added light from the reflector.
Tips and Tricks:
* Start Subtle: Don't overdo it. The goal is to fill in shadows naturally, not to blast your subject with light. A little reflection goes a long way.
* Feathering: "Feathering" the reflector means angling it slightly so that the reflected light gradually fades off your subject. This creates a softer, more natural look.
* Experiment: Don't be afraid to experiment with different angles, distances, and reflector surfaces. The best way to learn is by trying things out and seeing what works best for you.
* Wind: Wind can be a challenge, especially with larger reflectors. Use weights or clamps to secure the reflector and prevent it from blowing away.
* Subject Comfort: Make sure your subject is comfortable. Avoid shining direct sunlight or bright reflections directly into their eyes. Communicate with your subject and let them know what you're doing.
* Positioning. Often the best place for a reflector is below the chin, aiming upwards, to fill in harsh shadows that can be created by overhead sunlight.
* Take your time Don't rush the process. Experimenting with the placement of a reflector takes time. Don't be afraid to take your time.
Advanced Techniques:
* Combining Reflectors: Use multiple reflectors to shape the light more precisely.
* Using Reflectors with Artificial Light: Reflectors can be used with speedlights or studio strobes to create more controlled and flattering lighting.
* Creating Gels on the Reflector: Attach colored gels to the reflector to add a subtle color cast to the reflected light.
By following these steps and experimenting with different techniques, you can use DIY reflectors to dramatically improve your portrait photography, creating more flattering and professional-looking results. Good luck, and have fun!