Background Lighting Question

mattchewone

mattchewone

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Matt
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Hi,

Got a bit of a question for you if possible. I have two interfit studio flashes in my loft they are only basic, I have a softbox and two brolly attachments. I also have 2-3 flashes which I can use wirelessly.

If I was to get something like this - Background Kit

What would be the best/easiest way to light the background and subject to A) get a high key shot and B) use the black backdrop and get a well lit / softly lit portrait/head shot against a black background?

What would be the best distances for example how far away should the subject be from the backdrop and the backing lights from the backdrop?

Many Thanks
 
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Anyone able to offer any advice?

All advice is very much appreciated!
 
First I would read through this .
I am just learning myself. but it is all about distance from background and at least f/8 to reduce background.
The white you really need 3 lights to do a background out in white.
it is possible with 2 Lights
But as you said you have the flashes to light the background evenly.
Check this from GARY at Lencarta
 
Lighting the white background - which is not the same as lighting for a high key shot but I'm assuming that that's what you actually mean - is explained in this video

That's part 1, there's a part 2 as well.
You'll see that the equipment I used for this was a pair of white reflective umbrellas, softboxes could also be used, but not silver umbrellas or shoot through umbrellas.

The type of frontal lighting you use will determine the effect you get, it doesn't really make any difference what the background is, except that when using a black background you might also want to use a rimlight or a hairlight, the effect of which is less obvious if using a chavground beautiful white background.
Basically, if you want the lighting to be soft, flat and featureless then use a large light source close the subject. If you want to make the face even wider, put a light each side. If you want to emphasise good bone structure and thin the face, use a single light overhead with either an on-axis fill light or a reflector
 
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**couldnt see video but now working**
 
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I'll be watching this thread with interest. I have just set myself up with two Nikon SB900's and a Nikon SB800, two light stands and two shoot through brollys. I have not used the setup yet so will be coming back for any ideas and info on this setup. Thanks
 
Thanks for the links Matt will put some time on one side to watch them
Dave
 
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