Page 28 - (DK) Advanced Photography Guide

26 EXPLAINING | LIGHTING

LIGHT MODIFIERS

The light from a flash or studio light can be enabling the camera to record detail across
modified by using one or more different the full tonal range of a scene. Light modifiers
lighting accessories. These light modifiers can also be used to direct where light falls, so
affect the quality of the light that falls on your that you can illuminate part of your subject or
subject and can be used to reduce contrast, scene to create a focal point in the photo.

DIFFUSER

A diffuser is an accessory that
effectively places a sheet of
translucent cloth or plastic
between the light source
and the subject. This helps to
reduce glare and to eliminate
hot spots on the subject. It
also makes shadows softer
and less dense. Diffusers are
usually small and portable,
making them ideal for use
outdoors. Some diffusers
are easy to make yourself.

▲ REDUCES UNWANTED GLARE

SOFTBOX
A square, rectangular, or
octagonal cloth unit with a
reflective inner surface and
a diffusing screen attached to
the front, a softbox houses
a flash or studio light. The
combination of the reflective
inner surface and the diffusing
screen softens the light that
is emitted from within.
Softboxes are generally
used on a lighting stand,
making them more suited
to indoor photography.

▲ SOFTENS THE LIGHT SOURCE

US_026-027_Understand_LightingModifiers.indd 26 05/02/2018 14:34