Controlling Light

Controlling Light

Now that we have discussed light modifiers above, it's time to discuss how to control the lights. Light modifiers are tools of controlling light, where you can get softer flattering light, or you can direct the light to fall on to specified places on the subject or near the subject, depending on the effect you are going after.

Shutter speed, aperture and ASA/ISO; each setting affects the exposure of the film or sensor. Shutter speed dictates the duration of the film or sensor's exposure to light. Aperture is the opening of the lens that allows how much light comes in. ISO or ASA is the sensitivity of the film or the digital sensor to the light.

Now we'll be adding a few more variables into the exposure triangle. Power output for flash/light. Each type of lighting equipment that we have elaborated here, has a switch or toggle that allows you to increase or decrease the power output from your steady light or strobe. This is where studying the manual of each piece of equipment will come in to play, in order to maximize full control of your lighting equipment.

If you have a limited way of controlling your lighting equipment, another way to intensify or weaken the light on your subject is distance. Moving your light or strobe closer increases the light on your subject, moving it further away from your subject will decrease the light falling on your subject.

Background and Backdrops

We should also look into using background and backdrops. Aside from just getting backgrounds you should also consider a support system on how to support or hold up those backdrops.

Aside from using paper as material for your backdrops you can consider using vinyl backgrounds that can be cleaned up after a shoot. Some shoots can get really dirty and messy, thus having the option to be able to wipe it clean can be a big advantage for you in the long run.

You might also want to consider looking into hooks to hang your backdrops to the wall of your home studio.

Aside from paper and vinyl you can also consider fabric backgrounds, muslin being a popular choice. There are many creative and beautiful options out there. When choosing however, keep in mind your subject, you don't want a backdrop that will be so busy that is distracts from your subject.