White Backgrounds For Commercial Photography
One of the most popular backgrounds for studio photography is a solid white background. One of the hardest aspects to using a white background is when the subject is also dressed in white or is holding a white product. As the photographer youhave got to separate the white subject from the white background and not tell them they cant wear their choice of clothing. Many photographers appear to never get the separation correct and if you look at ads in many mags you’ll see a scarcity of detail where the white color blends.
What you might need :
Some say youmust have plenty of space so that there isnot any reflection from the backdrop to the subject. Fine if you have the room but depending on your camera settings youstill might have issues even with 15 feet of space between the white background and subject. This reflection is also known as spill, wrap or aptitude depending on where it comes from. Irrespective of what you call it photographers need to avoid it unless you’re going for a unusual look.
What I do is light the white seamless paper from behind my subject. I try and permit about 8 feet so I have space for my lights. I use from 3 to 4 lights. When using four lights 2 are on each side. When using three I have one on each side and one behind the model concealed from sight. I have used soft boxes and umbrellas with equal results. If using an umbrella be sure to have the black liner attached to prevent spill. A black poster can also be used if you feel more light blockage is needed.
Employing a light meter placed in front of the model just under her jaw take a reading. Point the meter toward the camera and fire all of the strobes. If the reading is F11 and you are happy with that setting then move the light meter to behind the model facing the background. Take a reading of the flash and it should be 1 stop under. No more and no less. You can move the model closer or further away for simple adjustment or adjust each of the background lights. At one stop or F8 in this sample you would have total separation of the white background and the white clothing worn by the model being photographed. Whatever setting you need for your subject just make sure the background reading is one under.
A good photographer should be able to picture any color of clothing with any background or light conditions. If you book a photo shoot and your photographer tells you not to wear white because it is hard to photograph I recommend that you look for a new photographer. All that statement shows is a dearth of knowledge about photography lighting.
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