HOW I GOT THE SHOT

This is one of the easiest shots to produce and it is also one that can create a very dramatic effect.

First, I was challenged by the harsh afternoon sun. We were at a school so I took him to the breeze way to cut the direct overhead light. I positioned the subject were I saw color behind him. Noting that the final image will look better when: the color behind the subject enhances the clothes, skin and feel of the shot.

I could position the camera with-in 6 feet of the subject, which I did. However, the bright sun I needed to kick into the shot was 12-15 feet away. I had a assistant walk out to the heavy sun and position the 36 inch circle reflector back at the subject. Be careful and understand that the sun is bright and it is uncomfortable for the model. Try to angle it so that the model does not have to squint. Still, keeping in mind the areas you need to fill.

I like to work with the reflectors because:

1. You see what you are getting.

2. For me it makes a more pleasing and contrasty background, allowing all the colors to come through.

3. It is easy to place, easy to handle, it’s light and requires no portable lights, cords or battery packs.

4. Anyone can help you - Friends, Family, Bystanders, Anyone – no experience required.

5. You can bounce the light in or if no shade is available you can hold it above them and have a shoot through diffuser.




Now the shot: I liked the background but wanted to keep the focus on the subject because that is what this shot is all about, right. In AV mode I set the f/stop to 2.8. I was about 6-8 feet away which would give me a long enough depth of field for him. I let the camera set the shutter speed which on this one was 1/3200 seconds. (Note: Don’t ever worry about the high Shutter Speed).

If I had wanted more detail in the background, I personally would have gone with f/8. But I knew the sidewalk was going to blow out (white) on this shot. He was a long way from the reflector so I chose the silver side for distance and because of his skin tone he could take the more direct light. I always shoot in groups of 3’s with the focus being on the eye closest to me.

Give a reflector a try, it only cost about $40 and it has endless possibilities.