What a reflector does is simply diffuse and reflect some of the light back on the object or subject and, depending on the light, can either make a shadow disappear altogether, or fill in the shadows to bring out more detail. Whether you’re doing portraits, product or food photography, it can take a photo from blah to wow. Reflectors are a must in certain situations, and you’d be amazed at the difference just a small piece of white foam core can make. ![]() Never underestimate the power of reflected light! It can totally change the look and feel of an image, and sometimes, it can make or break the shot. If you click on a link and make a purchase, I’ll receive a small commission. Just ask our friends the Hickenloopers, they know first hand.Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. It will take you photos to the next level. So next time you're out on a shoot, look out for these types of natural reflectors. Sometimes this is inevitable and will just need to be corrected in post processing. It can make it look like they have a sunburn when they don’t. One thing photographers have to keep in mind is the red hues the red rocks reflect on your subject’s skin. Red rocks and desert destinations are popular for photoshoots here in Utah. That’s right, even grass can be troublesome and make your image overly saturated with green hues. Red or green carpets can reflect unflattering hues onto the subject’s clothes, skin and surrounding environment. Types of Natural Reflectors to Avoid 1. Vibrant Carpets Retro car shoots, or even the bridal getaway car can be a perfect backdrop that doubles as a reflector for hair/rim lights to make your subject pop off the background. The veil can also be used as a diffusor for close up shots of the bride. Gives a nice glow to both the groom and bride’s face. The light color of the cement and typical placement of either the ground or on a building usually help provide a nice glow to the subject's face.Īnother great reflector, as it’s usually a neutral color and will reflect soft, natural looking light that can act as a flattering key or fill.Ĭan help accent as a nice hair light or creative background.Īnother neutral reflector that can be easy to find in urban locations for pleasing bounce and accent lighting. ![]() ConcreteĬoncrete and sidewalks are natural reflectors. That’s something to keep in mind when scouting for locations. Most of the best environmental reflectors mimic these types of colors. When you think about a common circular reflector, they come in a range of colors from white, silver, gold and translucent. The main deciding factor that affects the quality of your environmental reflector is the color. What can be used as a reflector for photography? ![]() For those interested in learning what these specific places are, hang on tight as we cover the most common as well as which types to avoid. So, we went ahead asked some of our own experienced photographers what they look for when it comes to natural reflectors. For most wedding, family, or couple photographers, utilizing natural reflectors and light bounces within the environment can be an invaluable skill in making the most out of your location and improving your photographs.įinding and utilizing natural reflectors is a skill many photographers we know use to automatically point out ideal photo spots when on location. If you don’t have access to an assistant or you are not taking close up portraits, then using a reflector can become cumbersome or impractical. Reflectors are primarily used by portrait or still life photographers and we have seen incredible end results by those who know how to use them correctly.Īlthough, in some cases, using a reflector might not be a possibility. A reflector is a simple tool that helps bounce and redirect natural light off its surface to fill in any harsh or distracting shadows on a subject, act as a hair/rim light, or use it as the main key light source. As a portrait photographer, one of the most powerful and often under-rated pieces of equipment to have in your arsenal is a reflector.
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