A reflector looks like an inconspicuous piece of fabric, but it is one of the most versatile tools in photography. You don't need it for every shoot, and many of the example images are even created entirely without it. Still, it is worth mastering, because it helps exactly when the light doesn't fall the way you need it to.
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Typical situations are too much backlight, where the subject stays in the dark, or a location in the shade while the background shines brightly. With a reflector, you balance out such differences. The following guide shows you how to use its three functions deliberately: bouncing light back, shading light, and softening light.
Key Takeaways
- A reflector can direct light onto the subject, take light away, or, as a diffuser, create soft light.
- The angle determines the effect. A wrongly aligned reflector achieves hardly anything.
- Silver has the strongest effect, white is milder, gold warms the light but should be used sparingly.
- The black side takes light away and provides more depth and contrast.
- A diffuser softens hard light sources like the sun, but it needs space and is difficult to position in midday sun.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Identify the Lighting Problem
Before you pick up the reflector, look at the situation carefully. Is the subject too dark because the light source is behind it, or is it simply standing in the shade while the rest of the image is well exposed? This very difference between the subject and the surroundings is the moment when a reflector helps. If you can clearly name the problem, you also know which function you need.
Step 2: Reflect Light Back onto the Subject
The first function is the classic bouncing back of light. Imagine the principle like billiards: the light comes from the source, hits the reflector, and is directed from there onto the subject's face. A reflector that is just standing around somewhere won't do you any good, though. Move it until it sends the light exactly where you want it.
Step 3: Set the Angle Precisely
You shouldn't just estimate the angle roughly. Turn the reflector until the light hits exactly the spot you want to illuminate. One trick often helps additionally: bend the reflector slightly so that a kind of funnel is created that focuses the light more strongly. Collapsible reflectors are particularly well suited for this because you can shape them flexibly and they can be stored in a space-saving way.
Step 4: Choose the Right Position
You can use the reflector from below, from the side, or from the front. What matters is where your main light comes from. From below, the light often looks especially appealing and softens the chin shadow, which can otherwise quickly become unflattering. Try out several positions and compare the results before you commit.
Step 5: Take Away Light with the Black Side
The reflector can also do the opposite. Suppose your subject is already getting light on one half of the face, for example because a white wall is bouncing the light source back. Then hold the black side between the wall and the subject, and part of this reflected light disappears. The shadow side becomes darker, and the image gains depth. The effect isn't huge if the surroundings have a lot of stray light, but it is certainly visible. Check the effect directly on the monitor or camera display.
Step 6: Select the Appropriate Surface
Reflectors come in different surfaces, and each changes the light differently. Silver bounces back the most light and is therefore the strongest variant. White works on the same principle but looks softer. If you want to tone it down a bit more, simply set the reflector up farther from the subject. Gold colors the light warmer and is suitable when the lighting mood feels too cold. Be careful here, though: the image quickly looks unnaturally orange. Therefore, use gold in very measured doses.
Step 7: Using the diffuser for soft light
The third function is handled by the diffuser. It is usually inside the reflector and can be removed. Hold it between the light source and the subject, and it scatters the light. A harsh source like the sun becomes a much softer and more even light. You will quickly notice that the image becomes darker and more diffuse because the light is spread out. Especially in portraits, this looks flattering, since the skin is lit more evenly.
Step 8: Realistically assessing limits and space requirements
However, the diffuser has its limits. The sun is huge in relation to a standard diffuser, and to really shade it, you would need enormous constructions. Some studios work with large sheets of fabric that float above the set, but in most cases the budget for that is lacking. Whether the effort is worthwhile depends on the situation. At midday, the light usually comes from a steep angle above. Then it is difficult to place a reflector or diffuser in between without it protruding into the frame or getting in the model's way. In shaded areas, the situation is much more relaxed, because you have more room to work with there.
Summary – Using a reflector correctly: directing light, shading, and softening
A reflector fulfills three tasks: it directs light onto the subject, removes light with the black side, or softens it as a diffuser. Pay attention to the angle and position, choose the surface to match the desired mood, and use gold very sparingly. You can use the diffuser in harsh sun, but you should keep the space requirements in mind. With a little practice, you will quickly recognize which variant delivers the best results in which situation.
FAQ
Do I need a reflector for every shoot?No, many shots are taken without one. It is especially worthwhile for lighting problems such as backlight or subjects in shadow.
Which surface is suitable for a gentle result?White looks milder than silver. You can also soften it further by placing the reflector farther away from the subject.
Why should you be careful with gold?Gold warms the light strongly, and the image can quickly look too orange and unnatural.
What does the black side do?It removes reflected light. This creates more depth and stronger contrast.
How do I soften harsh sunlight?Hold a diffuser between the sun and the subject. It scatters the light and ensures more even lighting.
Why is midday sun difficult?The sun is then usually steeply above the subject. This makes it difficult to place a reflector or diffuser without it protruding into the frame or disturbing the model.
