Umbrellas are a fabulous lighting tool for a variety of subjects and assignments. The wrapping quality of the light from umbrellas makes them ideal for portraits, fashion and beauty. They are also a great choice for product and architectural photography.
As lighting modifiers, umbrellas are also very versatile, allowing you to use them as a reflective surface, or shoot directly through them for a softer effect. Today we are going to explore the options available with Photoflex’s Adjustable Umbrellas.
Photoflex’s line of adjustable umbrellas is the only one on the market that allows you to change the shape, uniquely affecting the catch lights and overall reach of your modifier. Available in both silver and white, these umbrellas can be quickly switched to a square or oval shape.
How does this work exactly? Photoflex’s adjustable umbrellas are designed with flexible rods that can easily be moved to securely fasten into a new shape. When adjusting each umbrella, be sure to look for the ribs with ties and move the adjacent ribs accordingly. Velcro tabs make it easy to secure any loose fabric for a clean and professional appearance on-set.
First, let’s take a look at the adjustable oval option. With both sides tucked in, the elongated shape is perfect for shooting half-body and full-length portraits. In the example below the light from the silver umbrella in the oval shape nicely wraps around the model’s body while minimizing the light falling on the backdrop. This creates separation between the subject and the background, creating a more dramatic effect.
With a backdrop like this one from Serendipity Backgrounds, the distance of the key light to the backdrop affects the color and intensity. In the example below, the key light and model were moved closer to the Bokeh-Highlight backdrop, allowing more light to fall on it and result in a brighter look.
In the example below, a white adjustable umbrella was used in the square (or diamond) shape to create this beauty shot. The light from the white umbrella is broad and flattering, creating creamy skin tones and improved complexion. The square shaped umbrella was placed with tips pointing up and down, resulting in an interesting and uniquely shaped catch light.
One of the best parts of using these adjustable umbrellas are the variable catch lights you can create. Each umbrella results in a unique shape and paired with a silver reflector, can make your subject’s eyes truly sparkle.
These adjustable umbrellas are a great way to introduce more options with your lighting modifiers without breaking the bank. Please contact your local dealer for pricing and availability or give us a call and we will be happy to point you in the right direction.
