Various Uses for a Reflector During a Photo Shoot

Photography Tips

I have to admit it. I rejoice in working with reflectors during my outdoor photo shoots. They can be used in a number of different ways. They simply make your photographic life much easier.

Light Reflectors Used in Photography

Do you have a reflector or are you planning to buy one? Here are the basic advantages of working with a reflector when doing outdoor photo shoots.

Diffuser

If you buy a 5-in-1 reflector you can use your reflector as a diffuser. Holding the reflector above your model you can diffuse direct sunlight into softer light. In doing so, the model’s features will turn out to be more graceful and smoother. This is a vital accessory particularly when you find yourself in situations where excessive harsh light is unavoidable.

In situations where you are forced to use artificial light, a diffuser is very helpful in minimizing the ugly shadows associated with flashes.

Artificial Light

I find it annoying having to use artificial light when I am working outdoors. It is pointless having ample natural light all around you and have to succumb to artificial light. But I do understand that in certain circumstances, you need that little extra light to lighten dark areas, such as below the chin, nose, and eyes.

A small reflector is all that is needed. You can take advantage of natural light by simply redirecting light to the desired areas.

Another important aspect is that you do not need to worry about getting extra batteries for your flash! The power source is unlimited.

“The Beauty of Plaosan” captured by Kustiyah (Click Image to See More From Kustiyah)

Wind Breaker

Photo shoots on windy days can be problematic. Models are drying their watery eyes and makeup has to be retouched constantly. The situation gets even worse when working on sandy beaches or dusty areas.

By strategically using a medium size reflector you can easily shield the model’s face from these extreme conditions. This is very effective if you are doing portraits.

Backdrop

An effective way of using a reflector is by using it as a backdrop. Depending on the size of your reflector, it can block unwanted noise in the background. Again, this is very effective when doing portraiture. Referring back to the 5-in-1 reflector, the choice of background usually is gold, silver, black, or white.

A reflector can be the best accessory you can carry with you during your photo shoots. Its uses are endless. To a certain extent I would prefer leaving an extra lens behind rather than a reflector. If like me, you like working with ambient light, I strongly suggest that next time you venture for your outdoor photo shoot you grab that reflector to bring along.

“Tanisha – Dr. Prem’s lighting workshop” captured by Vishwa Kiran (Click Image to See More From Vishwa Kiran)

Practice makes perfect, but knowledge can speed up your learning process. Read and expand your knowledge about reflectors in order to ameliorate and improve your photo shoots.

About the Author:
Do you want to acquire a handful of posing secrets so that you too can master the art of posing and directing a model? If yes, I invite you to follow my site at http://michaelabela.weebly.com in order to manage to move from one style to another with ease like a pro. That’s not all! Find tips and guides on how to start your online photographic business to turn your photos into money. Register for FREE in order to sell photos instantly. Author: Michael Abela