Elevate your portrait photos to new heights with just this one basic tool

If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and budget-friendly way to take your portrait photography to the next level, the answer might be simpler than you think: a photography reflector. Whether you’re shooting outdoors, in a studio, or experimenting with flash setups, a reflector can be a game-changer.

In this article, Ed Verosky walks us through the reflector basics, from what a reflector is to how to use it effectively, and shares some practical tips to help you improve your shooting skills.

What is a Reflector, and Why Should You Use One?

A reflector is essentially anything that bounces light back onto your subject. It doesn’t produce its own light but redirects existing light to fill in shadows, soften harsh contrasts, and create a more balanced look. Think of it as a tool to sculpt and shape light to your advantage.

Reflectors come in various shapes, sizes, and materials. The most common types are circular, collapsible reflectors available in silver, gold, white, and even black (which subtracts light). Flat reflectors are great for simple fill light, while curved reflectors can shape light more precisely, making them ideal for setups like clamshell lighting.

But here’s the fun part: you don’t always need an actual reflector. A light-coloured wall, a sheet of foam core, or even a piece of fabric can work in a pinch. Even a white towel can be your reflector friend!

Using Reflectors for Outdoor Portraits

One of the most common challenges in outdoor photography is dealing with harsh shadows, especially when your subject is backlit. For example, if your subject is facing away from the sun to avoid squinting, their face might end up in shadow. This is where a reflector shines, literally.

By bouncing natural light back onto your subject’s face, you can brighten those shadows and create a more even exposure. However, here’s a pro tip: avoid reflecting direct sunlight straight into your subject’s face, especially with silver or gold reflectors. This can create harsh, unflattering light and make your subject squint. Instead, aim for indirect sunlight and experiment with angles to find that sweet spot where the light softly fills in the shadows.

If you don’t have a reflector handy, get creative with your environment. A light-coloured wall can act as a natural reflector, just reposition your subject close to the wall or adjust your shooting angle.

Reflectors in Studio Settings

In a controlled lighting environment, reflectors are incredibly versatile. If you’re using continuous lights or natural light from a window, you can visually adjust the reflector’s position until you’re happy with the shadows and highlights.

With flash photography, you’ll need to take a few test shots to see how the reflector affects your lighting. However, don’t forget that ‘light is light’ and it always does the same thing. Once you get the right position, it’ll stay consistent throughout your shoot.

If you’re shooting solo, consider investing in a reflector stand. This allows you to position the reflector exactly where you need it without trying to juggle everything by yourself.

Controlling Contrast with Reflectors

One of the main reasons to use a reflector is to control contrast. High contrast, with sharp transitions from light to shadow, can add drama and emphasize texture. But for a softer, more flattering look, you’ll want less contrast.

Ed breaks it down with a classic one-light portrait setup. In this scenario, the key light creates strong shadows on the opposite side of the subject’s face. If you want to soften those shadows, you can use a reflector as a fill light. Position it on the shadow side of your subject, and it will bounce light from the key light back onto the face, reducing the contrast.

The closer the reflector is to your subject, the stronger the fill light will be. Conversely, moving it farther away creates a more subtle effect. This gives you a lot of control over the mood and tone of your portraits without needing a second light.

Creative Tips for Using Reflectors

1. Experiment with Angles and Distances: Small adjustments can make a big difference. Move the reflector closer or farther away, or change the angle to see how it affects the light.
2. Combine Reflectors with Multiple Lights: If you have two lights, use one as your key light and a reflector as your fill. This frees up your second light for a rim light, hair light, or background light.
3. Use the Environment: Look for natural reflectors like walls, floors, or even clothing to bounce light onto your subject.
4. Practice in Different Lighting Conditions: Try using a reflector in various scenarios—outdoors, indoors, with natural light, and with flash—to understand its versatility.

A reflector is one of the simplest yet most powerful tools in a photographer’s kit. It is, quite simply, the cheapest light modifier you can have that makes an enormous difference, and there’s no excuse for not having one or two in your bag at all times.

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