home Self-development How to choose the right reflector for product photography. Photo reflectors - types and applications in photography

How to choose the right reflector for product photography. Photo reflectors - types and applications in photography

Of course, the goal of a good photographer is to learn to work with natural light, however, this is not always possible when shooting to order, because you not only need to choose the time, risking missing the golden hours: sometimes you have to shoot all day and work with the lighting that is available. In such cases, you still want to avoid additional post-processing and get a high-quality three-dimensional photo with rich colors straight from the camera.

When it comes to portrait photography, it is not so easy to achieve a good result without the help of image editors and retouching. This is exactly why reflectors come to the rescue. Reflectors come in different shapes and sizes, and right choice reflector depends, as a rule, on what exactly you plan to shoot.

For example, street photography or travel photography, you should consider purchasing a round reflector with a diameter of approximately 50 centimeters. This way you can hold it in one hand while removing it with the other. In addition, this way you don’t have to shoot exclusively at home or in a studio.

On the other hand, when photographing a wedding, it is most convenient to use a rectangular reflector measuring approximately 120x180 centimeters. This way you will be able to illuminate a group of people evenly.

How to choose a reflector?

To get started with a reflector, you first need to choose the right model. The most versatile is a 5-in-1 round reflector with a diameter of 100-110cm. This diameter is suitable for both single and group portraits. However, you need to take into account that it is not easy to hold a reflector of this size, so you may need an assistant or a special holder when shooting.

Typically, a 5in1 reflector consists of a folding diffuser and a cover with white, silver, gold and black sides.

At the very beginning of shooting, it is sometimes difficult to understand which color is best to use. And, despite the fact that there are rules regulating the most suitable color for each type of conditions, in fact, in this you can safely rely on your own preferences and goals. Many rules in photography are very subjective. If you want to get an understanding of which color will give the desired result, you can practice in conditions close to those expected during the shooting process.

A reflector does exactly what its name says - it reflects light. Since the sun moves throughout the day and the direction of the light changes accordingly, you can first try placing a reflector directly in front of the model, at face level, and bending the corners a little (the model can do this directly). In this case, you can, for example, smooth out the reflexes from the grass if you are filming outdoors. But the weak point of this arrangement is that the neck is illuminated, which is not always worth highlighting for any model. So move the reflector to find the best angle for your model in the available light.

Features of reflectors

A white reflector adds a neutral light that hides skin unevenness, tone and wrinkles. The lower the model holds such a reflector, the more natural the light will be. The light turns out to be cold, and so is the entire temperature of the picture. In this case, you should be especially wary of overexposure.

The golden reflector gives a warmer light. When using the golden side of the reflector, you should be wary of excessive yellowness of the frame and, as a result, the model’s skin. To avoid this, you should try not to place the reflector too close to your face. Some experienced photographers limit the use of a gold reflector to backlit sunset portraits. However, with their help you can achieve warm and not too contrasting shots and an atmosphere of comfort.

The golden reflector successfully highlights pale and, on the contrary, tanned skin tones. It will not highlight pinkish skin very well.

A silver reflector enhances the contrast of the shot, especially if placed approximately at the height of the subject's waist. The light is uniform and, as in the case of a white reflector, hides skin imperfections well. The disadvantage of this reflector is that among the others it is perhaps the most complex. It can't be used directly because it catches the bright light and literally directs it, so it's important not to blind the model.

At the same time, a silver reflector gives the most natural color palette of the photo. As a result, it is easiest to use with models who have enough experience. In other cases, you can limit yourself to white.

A black reflector is not actually reflective at all. On the contrary, it absorbs light. Even professional photographers don’t use it very often, but it has its good moments. For example, a Black reflector can create gorgeous, enhanced shadows that add drama and mood to a picture.

If the light is too bright, direct, a black reflector can be positioned so that it blocks strong light and creates shadows on the model's face, adding dimension to the picture.

The diffuser is the most popular side of the reflector for portrait photography. In direct light or indirect lighting (for example, through the foliage of a tree), it is simply irreplaceable. Many parts of the face in this light will be in shadow, while others will be overly illuminated. Usually, in this case, the easiest way is to position the model so that the light is behind it, but if this is not possible, a diffuser will come to the rescue. It blocks unwanted light and diffuses it so that the shadows are softer and there is no overexposure in the photo.

A reflector is a very necessary item in a portrait photographer's arsenal. It can highlight the advantages of the model, create the mood of the frame and the character of the character.

Many people believe that a real photographer only needs a camera and nothing more. But that's not true. As a rule, a professional in his field, in addition to a camera, has a whole arsenal of additional tools. Alas, it is not always possible to truly beautiful pictures with only a camera. In this article you will learn about such a device as a reflector for photography.

What is a photo reflector and what does it look like?

What is a photographer's most important tool? This is light! This means that it is simply impossible for a photographer to do without a photo reflector. If you are new to this business and have never held this gadget in your hands, and generally have no idea what it looks like, let’s figure it out in order.

A photo reflector is a structure that consists of a frame and reflective material stretched over it. It is completely mobile and easy to use. With its help, photographs turn out much better and of higher quality. The described design is also called a reflector, light disk or screen, but the term “photo reflector” better conveys the whole meaning and principle of its use.

A reflector for photography comes in different shapes, colors and has its own purpose.

Why do you need a reflector when shooting?

The principle of operation of a photo reflector, as the name suggests, is that this device is mainly used when shooting a portrait to highlight details in the shadows, thereby leveling out the overall illumination of the frame.

Also, under certain conditions, the reflector can be used as a light source. For example, you take a portrait of a model who is standing sideways by the window. What will happen in the end if you do not use additional funds? Of course, the part of the face that is directed towards the window will be light, and the other will be in shadow. Accordingly, half of the face will simply fall into the darkness. The shot won't be quite perfect. And if the side that is in the shadow is illuminated with a reflector, you will notice a significant difference. The overall illumination of the frame will be even.

Another option is to shoot outside on a sunny day. There will definitely be some ugly shadows from the sun's rays in the photo. A reflector can easily fix this problem. Now you have seen how important this accessory is not only for a professional, but also for a novice photographer.

What types of reflectors are there?

As we have already said, reflectors are made in different shapes, sizes, colors and purposes:

The shapes of reflectors are round, square, oval and rectangular.
They also come in small and large sizes. The most optimal is a reflector with a diameter of half a meter to a meter. Of course, the most practical option would be a 5-in-1 reflector for photography, which, in addition to the base (white fabric), has 4 more covers of different colors.

Each photo reflector color has its own purpose:

White is used in bright sunny weather, it diffuses light perfectly.
Black is used in the opposite case, for example, when you have to remove glare surfaces. That is, it absorbs the excess light.
The silver reflector is used more often than others. It is indispensable when it is cloudy and cloudy. It is not recommended to use it on a clear day, as it can dazzle the eyes.
A golden reflector is rarely used, but it is still desirable that it be present in the arsenal. With this accessory you can add warmth to your photo or create a sunset effect.

How to choose the right reflector

If you decide to purchase such a useful accessory for yourself, then most likely you will be faced with a choice of what size and what shape to give preference to. If you work in a studio, then, of course, it is better to purchase large reflectors or screens. If you are shooting outdoors and you do not have an assistant to hold them, then it is better to purchase a small accessory.

As for the shape, the most convenient option is a triangular reflector with a handle. If you have a helper, then both round and oval ones will do.

There is also a wide range in price. It all depends on the brand, so choose a light disc not only for its intended purpose, but also for your budget.

How to use a reflector correctly

Now you know what a photography reflector is. How to use this device? There is nothing complicated about its use. Even the most inexperienced photographer will quickly understand what the point is. So, how to use a reflector for photography? The rules of use are presented below.

Try to keep it higher than the subject, at a natural angle. The “bottom-up” option does not always pay off. You can shine this way only to even out the shadows under the chin or on the neck. Many people neglect these rules and end up with the effect that they were shining a flashlight from below. If the subject of the photograph is a person, then bruises under the eyes in the photo are definitely inevitable. As a last resort, use two reflectors, and the one located below can be smaller.
The smaller the reflector, the closer it needs to be brought to the subject. If the screen is large, it is better to place it further away.
Try not to shine the reflector into the model's eyes. So it's unlikely you'll get good photos, but your eyes are guaranteed to be wet.

How to make a reflector with your own hands

If you don't want to spend money on professional equipment, then you can make a reflector for photography with your own hands. For example, if you urgently need a reflector and don't have one, you can take a large sheet of white paper. True, this option will not serve you for long, so it is better to do something more serious.

This means that before you make a reflector for photography, you need to choose a frame for it. Remember that it should be as light as possible. You can use a small diameter children's hoop or make it from stiff wire.

Now about the reflective surface. Glue a sheet of white paper onto the cardboard - here's a white reflector for photography. And on the other side - slightly crumpled food foil - here you have a silver screen. If you want to get a warmer photo, paint it.

By the way, you can find an old umbrella in your attic and cover it inside with crumpled food foil. You will also get an excellent reflector for photography, and even with a handle for which it will be convenient to hold it.

Conclusion

If you think that you can completely do without this accessory, it means that you simply have not encountered it in your work. Even the most experienced photographers, alas, cannot always adjust the exposure compensation settings on the camera so that the photographs turn out ideal in certain conditions. That is why useful devices come to their aid. It's up to you to decide whether to buy a reflector or make one yourself. May your shots always be successful!

Reflector – best friend photographer when photographing static scenes and objects. In addition, it is relatively inexpensive, and if you make it yourself at home, it is completely free. Essentially, a reflector is a simple white (silver, gold) surface that reflects light in the direction you want. This is the cheapest lighting modifier out there. Its main function is additional stage lighting.

The possibilities of using a reflector are limited only by its size. You can successfully use it when shooting portraits, macro photography, product photography, as well as other genres in which static objects are photographed.

If you are going to shoot architecture and landscape, or sport's event, and also conduct reportage shooting, then leave the reflector at home. Because in the first case, the size of even the largest reflector will be too small to illuminate the scene being filmed, and in the second, you (or your assistant) will be tortured by running after your subjects to try to illuminate them with the reflector.

When should you use a reflector?

A typical situation in which a photographer might need a photo reflector is when the light source (sun, external flash, etc.) illuminates the subject from only one side. By placing a reflector on the side opposite the light source, we can illuminate the subject with reflected light.

Let's look at another case where a reflector can come to the aid of a photographer. Imagine waiting until golden hour, positioning your model, and taking the photo. What's happening? Your model's hair will be beautifully highlighted by the golden rays of sunset or dawn, but her face will most likely be in shadow. At such moments, a reflector placed in front of your model will be able to illuminate her face well (for such a shoot, do not forget to invite a friend who can hold the reflector) with sunlight or light from a flash or other lighting sources.

Read more about using a reflector for taking portraits.

So, we figured out how to take pictures with a reflector. Now let's figure out how to choose a reflector.

Reflector for photography: how and which one to choose?

Choosing a reflector from the many options available in the market can seem like a daunting task. However, if you start from three key parameters, you can quite easily choose a reflector that best suits your needs. So, to choose a reflector, you need to decide which three of its parameters best suit your needs. Let's look at them in order.

Reflector size

The dimensions of the reflectors range from 30 centimeters to 2 meters. Here the logic of choice is extremely simple: the more large objects you are filming - the larger the reflector you will need to obtain uniform illumination. Small reflectors are capable of illuminating only small objects, so they are most often used, for example, for.

Reflector color

Currently, it is not practical to buy several photo reflectors of different colors. The most common options for reflectors, in terms of the color of their surface, are 5 in 1 or 7 in 1 reflectors. Such reflectors consist of several parts: a collapsible frame, onto which, like a cover, the reflective surface is put on and fastened with a zipper.

The most common and popular color of a reflective surface is white - it does not change the color temperature, provides smooth smoothing of shadows and soft illumination. This is why white reflector is the number 1 choice among photographers and amateur photographers.

The silver surface of the reflector is more aggressive and you should think twice before using such a reflector. Why? Because with a silver reflector it is very easy to overexpose the scene (however, if the transition between the illuminated and shadowed areas of the subject is too pronounced, then a silver reflector can help you more than a white one). As with the white reflector, silver does not change color temperature.

A reflector with a golden surface changes the color temperature, so it should be used in situations where the light falling on the subject has a golden tint, otherwise the reflected light will look unnatural.

A reflector with a black surface is not used to reflect light, but, on the contrary, when we need to cast a shadow on the object being photographed.

The blue and green surfaces included in the kit are also not used as reflectors. Basically, they are used as a background or background, the so-called chrome key, which will be replaced by another background at the image editing stage.

Reflector shape

The two main reflector shapes offered to photographers are rectangle or circle. If you always use an assistant for shooting with a reflector, then the issue of the shape of the reflector may be secondary - choose any one you like best. By the way, not only the assistant, but also the model can hold the reflector in cases where you are shooting a portrait in which her hands are not visible.

If you are going to use a photo reflector without an assistant, then a rectangular shape will be more preferable, since it is more stable than a round one. However, even the lightest breeze can blow away a rectangular reflector, so the best option will use a tripod for the reflector, types and models of which modern market offers almost more than the reflectors themselves.

Homemade reflector

At the end of the article, we could not help but say a few words about homemade photo reflectors. The most difficult thing in making them is finding a suitable frame. If you find it, consider it most of the job is done. All you have to do is stretch a sheet of foil, tracing paper or any other reflective material over it and the reflector is ready! For macro photography or subject photography, such a homemade reflector can be very useful.

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Walking through a park or city on a brisk sunny day, you probably saw strange people with huge “plates” of silver or golden color. Often this is a whole group of people idly wandering around shady oases, someone poses with their lips curled like a duck, someone looks through the viewfinder, and finally some strange guy shoots bunnies in the face of our cute “duck”, just like I did when -at school, during history lessons. And it would seem, well, why are you blinding her, it’s possible, as they like to say, “it will do anyway,” for some, of course, it will do anyway, but if you looked here, this is not your case.

Well, for clarity, I will show the difference between “it will do” and “as needed.” The case is as simple as the corner of a house. Imagine, you take photographs, of course for a lot of money, and you need to shoot a couple on a hot summer day, when the sun, although it is already approaching, stings mercilessly, so in backlight you end up with some #wonderful crap, like this:

Someone will now say that the photographer is a loser, he chose the wrong angle, set up the camera, chose the location, and so on and so forth. But as for me, everything is much simpler - the photo does not catch on, because there is no correct lighting, because the play of light and shadow is photography. Of course, I could choose a different angle, light, or even photograph against the sun, but why if there is a reflector? Compare with the following photo:

Tell me, has it gotten better? I probably won’t surprise anyone if I say that these two photographs were taken at the same time, in the same place and with the same settings. The only difference is that in the second photo my good assistant, and the groom’s brother, pointed the “hare” directly at the newlyweds.

There is no magic here. The light hitting the reflector is unevenly reflected and partially scattered, weakening the reflected sun rays, which fall on our newlyweds softly and pleasantly for the eye, while not only your photographic one, but also your models does not make wrinkled Asians, blinded by the sultry the sun.

Now regarding technology. First things first, you need an assistant. It was not for nothing that I talked about a group of people at the beginning of the article, because... It is impossible to cope alone. It is advisable that it be a man, because... sometimes you have to hold the reflector from very uncomfortable positions and even on outstretched arms, as in the photo above, where the reflector is placed on top of a rose garden stand, and it will be extremely difficult for a small, puny girl to hold back the “sail” swaying in the wind.

The assistant’s task is to catch the “hare” and direct it towards the newlyweds, who are in the shadows. You can even have the sun hitting the back of our models’ heads, this way you create a natural backlighting light contour, as in the photo below:

That's actually all the technology. The trick is in the simplicity of this technique. There are no more here pitfalls or additional tricks. You can play around with two reflectors, but in my opinion it’s not worth it, because

You may ask, which reflector should you choose? Take one that rolls up comfortably and takes up little space. My favorite reflector is a circle with a diameter of 110 cm, while when folded it fits in a round package with a diameter of 40 cm, and if you try, it will easily fit into the laptop compartment of a photo backpack.

For street photography you will need two types of reflectors. Silver, which I used for photography, and gold for warm tones. I personally prefer to photograph when the sun takes on a warm orange tint, so I don’t need to further “warm” the tones. But the conditions may not always be so suitable:

Putting aside the lyrics and philosophy, the bottom line is that I would like to note the following:

In order to do nice photos, the reflector is not important, if you feel the light, you will select the right lighting without it:

But if you have the opportunity and resources (I mean an assistant), then be sure not to be lazy and take a reflector with you, it will help you a lot.
A good reflector is one that takes up little space and can be folded into a backpack. At the same time, you should not take a reflector that is less than 1 m in diameter, because The reflection area will be extremely small and your assistant will need to get close to each other to achieve the desired effect.
When shooting with a reflector, the model should be in the shadow, and you can even put it in backlight, i.e. you will get a light outline effect.

If I missed anything or you have questions, don't hesitate to write in the comments.

P.S. The reflector, by the way, can be used not only during street photography, but also, but more on that some other time.

Natural light is often the best lighting for making great photo. But it does not always have the desired direction and intensity. However, there is an easy way to solve these problems - reach for the reflector and direct the light where you need it.

You can take almost any surface that can reflect light and use it as a reflector. For example, traditional reflectors made from polystyrene sheets are very common in the studio - they are cheap and lightweight, and can also be coated in different colors to give different effects.

They are an alternative option. Such reflectors are a textile fabric stretched over a metal frame, which can be conveniently packaged in lightweight packaging. - the most common option. With them, you have five different surfaces at your disposal. Light disc is most often used in portraits, macro photography, and product photography.

Surfaces 5 in 1

Most often, such reflectors have 5 canvases of primary colors: white, black, metallic silver, metallic gold and translucent. The diffusion surface is the fifth part of the 5-in-1 system. Instead of acting as a reflector, it acts as a diffuser for the light passing through it.

Below are examples of photographs. All of them were filmed against the light. See what the difference is when reflectors of one color or another were used when shooting.

Without reflector. The vase is too dark, the light does not reach it

White . The surface does not change the color or nature of the light it reflects. The light is pleasantly diffused and very natural. White surfaces are often used to lighten shadows caused by strong sunlight. They also play the same role in the studio when you're using one of the harsher types of lighting.

An example photo where a white reflector was used. The vase is shrouded in soft diffused light

Silver. The reflected light is relatively cool and strong. It models objects more, does not look natural and is more noticeable in the photo. Use it when the light provided by the white reflector is not intense enough.

An example photo where a silver reflector was used. The light reveals more detail than the white reflector example.

Gold. Similar to silver reflectors, they emit a fairly intense light but also add a warm tint reminiscent of sunset light and therefore allow you to simulate evening light during the day. This makes them especially useful for taking portrait photographs.

An example photo where a gold reflector was used. The nature of the light source is similar to the silver reflector, but its colors are shifted towards warmer tones

Black. Unlike other surfaces, black absorbs light rather than reflecting it. Thus, you can use black canvas for opposite purposes. Instead of lightening the shadows, you can instead deepen them. This surface is useful when there is a lot of natural light, but it is so diffuse that it does not sufficiently shape your subject. Adding shadows is known to give a photo more depth.

An example photo where a black reflector was used. With this type of lighting (backlit) a black reflector is counterproductive

When the reflector is frequently folded, grooves and bends appear on its surface. This should not affect the quality of the reflected light during normal use and is therefore nothing to worry about. However, cheap reflectors can have the problem of large areas of the reflective layer peeling off, and this is something to consider when choosing them.

Reflector sizes and shapes

The most common shape for universal folding reflectors is a circle, while for larger ones it is a rounded rectangle. There are also specially shaped reflectors for a specific genre.

Triangular blades with built-in grips are also quite common; you can hold them in one hand and the camera in the other.

You can buy folding reflectors ranging in size from tens of centimeters to several meters. Small reflectors are useful for macro photography and product photography. Although, on the other hand, having a special reflector only for a narrow genre is an unnecessary luxury. In these types of photography, you can easily replace the reflector with folded paper or a small piece of polystyrene.

Medium-sized reflectors measuring around 40 centimeters are useful when taking portraits. In the meantime, reflectors larger than 1.5 meters will come in handy for shooting full height and group shots. You can also use large reflectors as a backdrop.

Working with a reflector

In scenes where there is no movement, such as food or macro photography, you can usually get by without an assistant. Your camera will stand on the , so your hands can freely hold the reflector.

IN portrait photography Quite often it is required, which means you need to hold the camera in your hands, so you will need an assistant. If you don't have an assistant, your model can also help with the reflector.

A special reflector holder mounted on a tripod is a good alternative. Sometimes you can lean the reflector against something you have on hand.

When you choose where to place reflectors, the same rules apply as when using . This means that the closer you place the reflector to your subject, the larger it will be relative to him or her and the more diffuse the light will be. The reflected light will also have greater intensity.

When you operate the camera on a tripod and control the reflector yourself, keep in mind that you are viewing the scene from a different angle than the one created in the camera's viewfinder. Even if the light looks perfect from where you stand with the reflector, it may look very different in the final photo, so be sure to make adjustments to account for this fact when you install the reflector.