Using a Shoot-through Umbrella As a Reflector

[cortes]

I want to do some product shots with my Lowel ViP Pro-lights (250w continuous). I want to shoot one light straight down from a boom. The instructions for the light say not to point the light straight down. I would imagine you would melt the plastic switch on the back of it if you did. It says 45 degrees at the most. So I thought I would shoot straight up into a reflective umbrella. I have a Westcott 42" silver reflector, but I'm not found of the light. I also have a Westcott 42" white shoot through. If I used it as a reflector, what would be good to drape over the top of it? I'm thinking a white background cloth would be the best. I would think tin foil would be similar to a silver reflector. Tin foil would also keep the heat in. I could get a Tota, but I'm not positive I could shoot down with that either.

My long term solution is to go to strobes.

[Lotto]

I have a Westcott 43" white shoot through umb, and I use it as bounce more than shooting through, without the backing. I don't a see why you can't do the same with the hot light.

[cortes]

That occurred to me as well. I'm experimenting with my flash meter I'll have to test the difference.

[cortes]

I heard from tech support at Lowel. And on a Saturday no less! He said I could point it straight down, but to avoid spot focus as it brings the bulb closer to the back of the camera. I was using the flood setting with umbrella so I'm good to go. Now I just have to wait for my boom to arrive.