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DPChallenge Forums >> Tips, Tricks, and Q&A >> Questions about collapsible reflectors
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Canon EOS-5D Mark III
Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L USM
 06/13/2007 02:51:23 PM · #1
I have one of those smaller 3-in-1 reflectors with silver, gold and translucent colors, but I am in the market for a larger 48” version. Some of the options are black/silver, & gold/silver (plus a slew other possibilities).

Question 1 – When would you use a “black” reflector? (I know you may use it as a potential background, but are their other uses? Reduce light flash or something?)

Question 2 – Any recommendations on color / sizes, make / style (circular/rectangle)? My general use will be for portraits, but I’m interested in getting the biggest bang for the buck, so wondering if there are any “tips and tricks” w.r.t. reflectors that you might be willing to share? Any must have’s?

Question 3 – Is a reflector stand worth the $’s?

Thanks!

06/13/2007 03:01:01 PM · #2
Question 1: Black reflectors are used when you specifically DON'T want light bouncing back to the subject. Black absorbs light. It helps to get more dramatic lighting ratios.

Question 2: I use a 48" white and gold reflector for most things. The 5 in one reflectors are great. 48" is probably big enough for most needs.

Question 3: Boom microphone stands and clamps work quite well. For indoor use stands are really worth the money. For outdoor use, get a helper, stands suck.
Canon EOS-5D
Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II
 06/13/2007 03:02:43 PM · #3
1. Use to create shadow by blocking the light source. Use to create shadow by absorbing the light and keeping it from bouncing back to your subject.

2. I've had a smaller one (24" i think) but found it too small for most shoots, even with one person head shots. I recently picked up a 42" collapsible reflector from Calamet in SF. It was 49.99 and the optional cover was just $5 extra. That base unit gave me Black and translucent. The cover added gold, silver, white, and a gold/silver combo. They don't advertise the cover discount but they will take it at the register.

3. Not sure on this one but since I only have two hands I'd like to have one.

edit: Figured Leroy would beat me and say it more clearly. :) Regarding the use of stands outside, Leroy confirmed my gut feeling.

Message edited by author 2007-06-13 15:04:44.
 06/13/2007 03:13:32 PM · #4
Originally posted by mpeters:

edit: Figured Leroy would beat me and say it more clearly. :)


The second part doesn't happen very often I'm afraid :-)
Canon EOS-5D Mark III
Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L USM
 06/13/2007 03:15:05 PM · #5
Awesome - thanks guys!!
Canon EOS-5D
Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II
 06/13/2007 03:21:22 PM · #6
Originally posted by fotomann_forever:
Originally posted by mpeters:

edit: Figured Leroy would beat me and say it more clearly. :)


The second part doesn't happen very often I'm afraid :-)


Clearly. ;)

good luck MacP
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