Reflectors

[minatophase3]

I have an outdoor photo session next Tuesday around 6:30 PM. My first outdoor photo session turned out really well (at least I am happy with it and so was the model), but I know I have a lot of room for improvement. Here is a link to the first session in case anyone is interested (I should mention that she wanted some of her dog as well and no, the model wasn't the dog :D : )http://www.thenationfamily.com/images/tim/nicole_revised/index.htm

This time I will have a different model with a little darker skin and am thinking about using a reflector along with some fill flash. Any suggestions on which type of reflector to get (gold/silver/white/black/?) and if it is possible to use one without an assistant?

I am also looking for some interesting poses if anyone wants to lend some advice there.

Thanks,

Tim

[jimtfoto]

Sorry I can't be of much help on this particular topic, but since I am also in the market for a reflector, I thought I'd join in on this thread ... not being too familiar with them, I had planned to pick up a white/gold model ... believe the gold would soften the light and (I'm sure someone will jump in if I'm totally off base) the white side would be used on a day with not so strong sun. I've seen some rigs in one camera shop that uses a heavy tripod base with arms that hold a reflector.

cheers,
jim

[robertwgross]

I use one of those standard folding round reflectors that have surfaces of gold, silver, white, translucent, and black. That way, with one item, I can choose whichever surface gives me the best reflection.

Holding it is a problem. Having an assistant to hold it is nice, but I seldom have one around. I have slung it up on a tripod before, but that is awkward without some heavy steel wire. When I am operating outside, I seldom have more than one tripod with me, and the camera is on that one.

Let us know what you come up with.

---Bob Gross---

[evilenglishman]

a white reflector will give a softer light than silver or gold. Gold will give you a warmer colour and silver will be brighter.

here is a cheap tip - buy 2 large pieces of white card. Keep one as it is and use as a white reflector and cover the second on in cooking foil - this can be stuck on with spray mount. Screw up the foil first before gluing it on so you dont have it flat land smooth.

you can buy reflector holders quite cheaply that fit on any lighting stand.

[scottbergerphoto]

I use one of those standard folding round reflectors that have surfaces of gold, silver, white, translucent, and black. That way, with one item, I can choose whichever surface gives me the best reflection.

Holding it is a problem. Having an assistant to hold it is nice, but I seldom have one around. I have slung it up on a tripod before, but that is awkward without some heavy steel wire. When I am operating outside, I seldom have more than one tripod with me, and the camera is on that one.

Let us know what you come up with.

---Bob Gross---
Try this Bob:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=42107&is=REG
I use this with a lightstand and the Photfoflex Litediscs.
Regards,
Scott

[Spatch]

I found setting the reflector at a particular orientation a problem to but I stumbled across 'bendy arm' with clamps at either end in a sewing shop (I think they use them to hold items whilst sewing). What I do is use the clamp one end to clamp to the tripod, the other end to the reflector and hey presto it will hold it in position. You really need a second 'bendy arm' for the best stability though.

Mark.

[PhotosGuy]

and if it is possible to use one without an assistant?

Remember Julie Andrews floating through the air as she holds an umbrella in "The Sound of Music"?
I suggest that you find someone to hold it if there's ANY wind. Or, put a "C-stand" & sandbags on your equipment list. :wink:

[drisley]

I was thinking the other day that a cheap alternative to a reflector would be one of those nice foldable window reflectors people put inside their car windshields to keep the sun out.
They are silver on one side, white on the other, foldable, and very cheap!

[scottbergerphoto]

Since you seemed to miss it the first time:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=42107&is=REG

Home < Lighting & Studio < General Lighting Accessories < Lighting Controls & Modifiers < Reflectors & Accessories < Accessories for Collapsible Reflectors




Photoflex Holder for Litedisc Collapsible Reflectors
Mfr # DLHOLDER • B&H # PHLDHT



List Price: $ 72.95
Our Price: $ 47.95

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Availability: In Stock

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[BarbaraS]

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=270877&is=REG

5 in 1 reflectors - fold up and easy to carry. Some one can hold or you can get the lightstand and holder. Works for me.