Lighting Diffusers
Are you one of those people who doesn't like being photographed unless it's your "good side?" Well, keep on believing in that good side but I'm sure people are dying to see that other side of you, too. So be bold, show it. Before you object, look into
digital photography, after all, the lights are external.
Umbrellas
graduation photo? Notice how many umbrellas they used? That's because they want you to look perfect for the yearbook. Although, more likely they just didn't want your parents to bust in their doors and demand a reshoot or refund.
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* The shape of the umbrella allows light to bounce back without being too harsh on the subject of the photo.
* The half spherical shape transfers the light to a larger plane like a wall or ceiling.
* The problem a lot of people have is how to distribute the light to get the desired effect. If you use the umbrellas properly you can get a really soft look. It will not make faces too bright and will balance out the background.
* Dark lines or shadows will not appear on your face in the
portrait photo if you use these.
* If you want a soft, sort of rounded glow do not aim the light directly at the subject, but into the umbrellas. If you want unbalanced light, use a harsh light for one side and umbrellas where you want it soft so that the shadows only cover one side of the person's face or the object.
Barndoors
Unlike umbrellas,
light barndoors are not as soft in glow. They are metal flaps that direct the light in specific directions.
* These could be used to direct light in beams away from the subject. Conversely you can use these to creates shadows on a subjectBourdin'>Bourdin.
* You can attach these covers to overhead lights. These are useful because they'll not only redirect the light at a wall or ceiling, but keep it in full force.
* They are known for their use in television and film.
* While an umbrella could bounce the light evenly, the doors tend to beam light, keeping it's intensity and harshness in tact.
Flash Diffusers
* These are literally just little slips that fit directly onto the
basic photography, family photos, and personal use.
* They're a good alternative if there aren't walls for light to bounce off. They're also handy with
digital photography.
Light Boxes
The name reveals a lot.
glare, shadows and reflections on metallic and other shiny surfaces and items.
* They're not all terribly expensive. They can range from a little over
$100.
Reflectors
Let's get this out of the way before we proceed: yes, they
reflect light, not diffuse it. That being said, they still qualify in this topic because they will change your lighting atmosphere.
* They're made with different
black will absorb light.
* They are
sunlight and shine it elsewhere.
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