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02/10/2006 11:26:45 PM · #1 |
I have a single strobe light with a small umbrella and a reflector. I am working on using the strobe to produce some nice portraits, and in addition to the practice that I am getting (I will post pics later for critique), I would also like to ask some very stupid questions.
First of all, from what I understand, the closer I move my light to my subject, the larger the cathlight will be. Is that true?
Second, I assume that using the white side of the umbrella, as opposed to the silver, would produce a little bit softer light. Is that correct?
Third, is the change from highlight to shadow supposed to be more subtle as the light source is closer to the subject, or father away?
Any responses would be most helpful.
Scott |
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02/10/2006 11:32:01 PM · #2 |
1) correct.
2) correct.
3) the shadows are more subtle as the light moves away from the subject.
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02/10/2006 11:37:45 PM · #3 |
| Easy enough. Thanks Dave. Now, if anyone has some bright (no pun intended) ideas about different techniques to try, please post them here also. |
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02/10/2006 11:42:46 PM · #4 |
| Try using a reflector opposite the light. Even if its just a sheet of white cardbard, or cardboard covered with aluminium foil. The difference is amazing. I use the fold-up/pop-out reflector things you buy to put across inside of car windshield to block sun. They're cheap and work great. (in the studio, I hang one, or two from a spare rolling light stand) |
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02/10/2006 11:42:53 PM · #5 |
Deapee is correct.
The closer the light to the subject, the hotter, and less contrast.
The opposite when closer.
White bounce cards are a perfect way to capture some of that light and use it to 'edge' your subject.
A mirror is another trick.
Single source lighting is quick and easy, but be careful not to make the light too much of a key, it will look flat. Give it a little off center.
White paper china balls are a great cheap light to use for fill light.
Home Depot is your poor mans lighting source.
Let me know if I can help in the future.
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02/10/2006 11:47:07 PM · #6 |
| OK, this next statement will reveal how non-creative my brain is. How would you use the China Balls for fill lighting? |
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02/10/2006 11:54:55 PM · #7 |
China balls are use all the fricken time at work.
They are mainly used as either as a fill light, or a key light for up close shots.
I have worked on jobs where we put the china ball on the ground to give fill.
I have worked on jobs where the fill was on one side or the other of the subject.
It could even be a crude back light if you played around with it long enough.
China balls are great because they are already soft, you can change out the bulbs, you can put it on a dimmer, and they come in three differant sizes, and a thousand shapes.
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