Lighting Techniques for Photographing Model Portfolios: Strategies for Digital Photographers

S

ome light modifiers can be used with any light source, from sunlight to

studiostrobe.Theseareallhandydevicestohave around.Bestofall,they

tend to be inexpensive—and many can even be improvised with a quick trip

to the hardware store. Reflectors, gobos, and scrims fall into this category.

Other light modifiers, like softboxes and umbrellas, are designed specifically

for use on studio lights. These can range widely in price, but are invaluable

for exercising complete creative control.

Reflectors.

A reflector is any object used to bounce light—it could be a wall, a white t-

shirt, a mirror, or a commercially purchased kit. This is an easy and effective

way to control light. Unlike using flash for fill light, reflectors give you visual

confirmation of where the light is. With reflectors, you can also set up and

68 LIGHTING TECHNIQUES FOR PHOTOGRAPHING MODEL PORTFOLIOS

5. Light Modifiers.

5-1.Collapsible reflectors, available in a

wide variety of finishes, are a very pop-

ular (and portable) type of reflector.

These are all handy

devices to have around.

Best of all, they tend to

be inexpensive.