HINTS AND TIPS If you are new to working with studio flash and accessories, you might find

it useful to bear
the following points in mind: ▪ As a general rule, always use as few units as possible to achieve the desired
lighting effects. Start with one light only and use reflectors to control the quality of the illumination reaching
your subject. Only if this is insufficient should you consider adding extra lighting units to the scheme. ▪
Remember that it is easier to remove light than to add light. Using accessories, such as barn doors or
snoots, you can easily control the fall of light and any shadows that are created as a result. However, an
additional light immediately casts a set of new shadows. ▪ A reflector placed facing the main light, angled so
that it bounces light into subject shadows, is usually a more effective solution than using another light source
to reduce shadows. ▪ A large light source, such as an umbrella reflector or soft-box, produces softer light and
more diffused shadows than a small light source. ▪ A small light source, such as a spotlight with a small bowl,
produces harder light and sharper shadows than a large, diffuse light source. ▪ You can use colored gels to add
tints to the background of your subject.