How to use the reflector for photography?

Many believe that a real photographer needs only a camera and nothing more. But this is not so. As a rule, the professional of his case in addition to the camera has a whole arsenal of additional funds. Alas, it is not always possible to get truly beautiful photos, having only a camera. In this article, you will learn about a device such as a reflector for taking pictures.

What is a photorefractor and how does it look like

What is the most important tool for a photographer? It's light! So, it's simply impossible for a photographer to do without a photorefractor. If you are a beginner in the case and never held this gadget in your hands, and in general have no idea what it looks like, let's sort it out in order.

The photorefractor is a structure that consists of a frame and a reflective material stretched over it. It is absolutely mobile and easy to use. With her help, photos are much better and better. The described design is also called a reflector, light-disk or screen, but the term "photorefractor" better conveys the whole meaning and principle of its use.

Reflector for photography is of different shapes, colors and has its purpose.

What is the purpose of the reflector during shooting?

The principle of the photorefractor, as it is clear by name, is the reflection of light. Basically, this device is used when shooting a portrait to highlight details that are in the shade, thereby aligning the overall illumination of the frame.

Also, under certain conditions, the reflector can also be used as a light source. For example, you make a portrait of a model that stands sideways by the window. What will eventually happen if you do not use additional funds? Of course, that part of the face that faces the window will be light, and the other - in the shade. Accordingly, half the face just falls into the dark. The frame will not be perfect. And if the side that is in the shade, illuminate the reflector, you will notice a significant difference. The overall illumination of the frame will be smooth.

Another option - shooting outdoors on a sunny day. The photos will necessarily have ugly shadows from the sun. This trouble can be easily corrected by the reflector. Now you are convinced how important this accessory is not only for a professional, but also for a beginner photographer.

What are the reflectors?

As we have already said, they make reflectors of different shapes, sizes, colors and purposes:

1. The shape of the reflectors is round, square, oval and rectangular.
2. Dimensions they also have the smallest and the largest. The most optimal is a reflector with a diameter from half a meter to a meter. Of course, the most practical option will be a reflector for photography 5 in 1, which, past the base (white fabric) has 4 more cases of different colors.

Each color of the photorefractor has its own function:

• White is used in bright sunny weather, perfectly disperses light.
• Black is used in the opposite case, for example, when it is necessary to remove glare surfaces. That is, he absorbs excess part of the world.
• Silver reflectors are used more often than others. It is indispensable when it's cloudy and cloudy. On a clear day it is not recommended to use it, since it can blind the eyes.
• A golden reflector is rarely used, but it is still desirable that it be present in the arsenal. With the help of such an accessory, you can add heat to the picture or create a sunset effect.

How to choose the right reflector

If you decide to buy for yourself such a useful accessory, then, most likely, you will have a choice, what size and what form to give preference. If you work in a studio, then, of course, it is better to purchase large reflectors or screens. If you shoot outdoors and you do not have an assistant who will keep them, then it is better to purchase an accessory of a small size.

As for the form, the most convenient option is a triangular reflector with a handle. If you have an assistant, they will fit both round and oval.

At a price the spread is also great. Everything depends on the brand, so choose a light-drive not only for its intended purpose, but also for your pocket.

How to use the reflector correctly

Now you know what the reflector is for a photograph. How to use this device? There is nothing complicated in its application. Even the most inexperienced photographer will quickly understand the essence. So, how to apply a reflector for photography? We will introduce the rules of use below.

1. Try to keep it above the object, at a natural angle. The "bottom-up" option does not always justify itself. To shine in this way is possible only to level the shadows under the chin or on the neck. Many of these rules are neglected and, in the end, get the effect that the lantern was shining from below. If the subject is a person, then the bruises under the eyes in the photo are definitely unavoidable. In extreme cases, use two reflectors, and the one that will be located from the bottom, can be a smaller size.
2. The smaller the reflector in size, the closer it should be to the subject. If the screen is large, then it is better to place it far away.
3. Try not to shine the model reflector in the eye. So it is unlikely that you will get good photos, but the swollen mascara and eyes on a wet place are provided to you.

How to make a reflector yourself

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

So, before you make a reflector for photography, you need to pick 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 out of a rigid wire.

Now, as far as the reflective surface is concerned. Put a sheet of white paper on the cardboard - here's a white reflector for taking pictures. And on the other hand - a slightly crushed food foil - here's a silver screen for you. Want to get a warmer picture - paint the foil with golden paint.

By the way, you can find on your attic an old umbrella and glue it from inside with a crumpled food foil. You, too, will have an excellent reflector for taking photographs, and even with a pen, for which it will be convenient to hold.

Conclusion

If you think that you can do without this accessory, then you simply did not come across him in the work. Even the most experienced photographers, alas, can not always adjust the exposure compensation settings on the camera so that the pictures are perfect under certain conditions. That's why they come to the aid of useful adaptations. And it's up to you to buy a reflector or do it yourself. Let your shots always be successful!