Using a Reflector for Senior Pictures

Ever wanted to create light-filled photos with even skin tones without extra editing work? Well, let me tell you about a game-changing tool… a reflector! Using a reflector for senior pictures is a must. Read on to learn why. 

Before I started using a reflector for senior pictures I was CONSTANTLY dealing with muddy images, dark eyes, and weird color casts. Very annoying. BUT once I started bringing a reflector along to my senior sessions, there was a HUGE change in my images!

Insert the handheld reflector! This tool is SUPER easy to use – and you don’t even need an assistant! I have a handheld reflector (this is the one I use) that I am able to use at any portrait session on my own. The secret? It has handles that make it easy to hold while you’re shooting. 

Why is it so helpful to use a reflector for senior pictures?

Why is using a reflector for senior photos so helpful? For one, it’s a quick way to brighten your client’s faces. Instead of dealing with brushing each and every photo in post, editing fake (and probably overly-enhanced) features, a reflector will naturally provide light to their face in every shot you use it in! A reflector is also great for evening skin tones. Reflectors push light into the features of your client’s skin, giving it a smoother appearance while also fading any blemishes. 

Here are two photos from a senior session I had – the photos are edited & posed the same way and in the same spot just a few seconds apart – the only difference is the left is without a reflector and the right is with a reflector!

 

Five Top Tips for Using a Reflector

Tips for using the reflector at a session:

1. Hold the reflector in your non shooting hand by the handle
2. Stand close and line the center of the reflector with your subject’s eyes
3. Bounce the light back onto your subject
4. Reflectors come with multiple sides made of different materials you can utilize depending on your lighting. Silver reflects a lot more light than white, and gold can add a nice touch of warm, yellow light. But I’ve found that using the white side delivers the best results for a more natural effect. 
5. Make sure your reflecting light doesn’t go overboard! If it’s too bright, take a step back. You will find the groove as you go! 

Having a reflector handy will make a huge difference in not only your photos, but your entire post-shoot editing process! It’s an easy, natural, time-effective tool to make your life easier and your clients look great.

Let’s Connect

If you are a photographer and want to learn more about high school senior photography or high school senior rep teams, I am your guy! Let’s connect so the Reed Gallagher Photography team can guide you in the right direction and help you bring your vision to life. You can contact me here to get the conversation started. I look forward to hearing from you! One of my favorite things to do is work with and mentor other photographers, so don’t be shy. Reach out!

Please stop by my online shop for senior photographers and browse around. You can find it here.

If you are a high school senior, I would be honored to be your photographer and share with you all about the RGP Senior Experience. To inquire, click here.

 

P.S: This post contains an affiliate link, which means I may make a small commission if you purchase the linked item(s). I would never promote something I don’t fully support & the reflector linked is the exact one I use and love!