An indispensable accessory that a photographer should make an investment on are reflectors. Reflectors are used to enhance the light settings in your photos. Whether you are using artificial lighting or natural lighting, reflectors can be very effective in bouncing backlight to your subject at desired angles. In this post, we will be talking about the advantages of using reflectors, and 6 best reflectors that can be used for photography.
What are the benefits of using reflectors?
Leveraging usage of light
If you have a limited amount of light in an area, the use of a reflector can increase the light’s ability to illuminate your subject. When used properly, you can reflect light on the desired angle without having to invest in another set of lighting, which can even be more expensive.
Controlling light intensity
Since reflectors aim to reflect the light source, you can also control the light intensity based on how you place this accessory. Light from reflectors usually have a softer intensity and are used to reduce unwanted shadows.
Create lighting effects
Professional photography has different styles and moods. Whenever a client wants a certain portion or angle to be shot using different lighting techniques, the use of a reflector can help achieve the desired look.
What are the six best reflectors?
WestcottEyelighterReflective Panel
The Westcott Eyelighter is a superb reflector due to its curved shape. The reflector is able to cover up shadowed portions of a subject that can’t be done by traditional lighting. The Eyelighter is very ideal for professional ID photography, wedding shoots, corporate shoots and other portraits that require high quality photos. Since its size is very bulky, this may be more ideal for a studio rather than a mobile reflector. Other than that, the Eyelighter assists in creating high-quality photos.
ePhotoCollapsible Oval (43 x 66 Inches)
An oval reflector which is quite huge, but entirely portable and collapsible. The ePhoto reflector has a feature which allows photographers to switch from silver to white reflection mode. Even if its size is quite large, this reflector is easy to carry around during outdoor shoots. The ePhoto reflector is good for outdoor images, and headshot photos. Although not as high-quality as the Westcott Eyelighter, it is worth the price and budget-friendly for beginner photographers.
Selens5-in-1 Handle 43 Inch
Another affordable option, the Selens 5-in-1 has reflectors of different colors (white, black, yellow, silver, etc.). Reviewers found this accessory having great quality and functionality because it has a grip on one end which allows the photographer to hold the reflector while shooting. This is very convenient for solo photographers who would rather shoot without an assistance. The Selens is also very portable the reflector set can be bundled to hold using one hand. This reflector is good for all-around shoots, but since coverage is small, it is ideal to shoot in smaller spaces using this reflector.
Neewer43-inch 5-in-1
Another good quality 5-in-1 reflector, the Neewer is also an affordable all-around reflector. The 5-in-1 feature is not entirely made up of 5 pieces of reflectors, rather, it gives you the option to switch to different colors. It has a fairly large diameter of 43 inches, which is good in reflecting larger subjects. The quality of the Neewer 43-inch reflector is decent, and can be carried along with its case. Neewer can be used in studio, casual or outdoor photography with ease.
Etekcity24″ 5-in-1
The Etekcity 24″ 5-in-1 reflector is simple, functional and high quality. It has one main frame, and you can bring the variety of 5 different reflectors along with you. Since its diameter is just 24 inches, it is perfect for on-the-go or travel photography. With that being said, since it is quite small, it may not be ideal for studios with large areas as a main reflector. It may work as an additional reflector when needed.
Andoer24 inch 5-in-1
The Andoer reflector is one of the affordable reflectors in this list. Also functioning with the main handle having several slipcovers, the Andoer does justice with medium range photography across different settings–studio or outdoors. However, it is important to note that it may be more difficult to carry around as it is bulkier than other reflectors in this diameter, otherwise it is a good option for beginner photographers who want to have a multi-functional but affordable reflector.
In choosing a reflector, a photographer must consider the budget, types of shots desired, and other sub-factors such as portability and durability. From there, one can pick the best choice from the price range and quality that is needed for your client’s photos.