How to use the Black Backdrop?
Posted by Jane Daniels on
The black background will be pleasant in all situations. It provides a fresh and graceful effect for the pictures. It makes the audience pay more consideration on the subject. A black backdrop will bring out impressive up shots that will pull notice of the spectator. The results will be exceptional and persuading. When the light effects are perfect, the outcome will be splendid. The process can be best achieved only on the go and not after the shooting. Let's now consider the equipment that may be required to shoot perfect pictures with black backdrops:
• A light source whether natural or artificial using flash or studio strobes
• A black backdrop whether fabric or paper
With these, you can photograph amazing pictures. All the extra work that is required is to manage and avoid the lights getting spilt elsewhere. Ensure that there is an adequate distance between the subject and the backdrop to prevent the brightness on the backdrop rather than the subject. Let's now consider how to attain best results using black backdrops:
Arrangement
The photographs have to be taken in a vaguely lighted environment with the lights focused on the subject only. A flash light of the camera will bring out good effects. The black backdrop has to be placed far from the subject with a minimum distance of 4 - 6 feet. The light sources have to be focused on the subject so that the backdrop remains dark post production. In another way, it can be achieved with the flashlights. The flashlight should be so used to spotlight the subject alone.
Picture Formation
To form a perfect picture that best suits the black backdrop a few points needs to be considered:
• The shooting environment should be dim lighted
• The camera ISO has to be set up to the lowest possible setting
• The camera has to be altered to manual coverage mode.
• The shutter speed of the camera has to be to the highest resolution
• Test shots can be taken with setting up the opening to be small and no flashlights. If this works out better, it can be applied
Light Effects
The flash effect on the camera has to be appropriately adjusted to boost the features of the subject. The flash has to be set up to the lowest possible setting focusing the subject. Also, the distance from the subject has to be appropriately altered. The camera coverage has to be so set up that it doesn't focus on the lights in the surroundings. The only focus has to be the distance between the flashlight and the subject. The main aim is to spill the certain amount of light on the subject to bring out best results.
Development
If some light is noticed on the backdrop, then adequate steps have to be taken to obstruct it. Gobo materials can be used to prevent the light falling on the backdrop. Something can be placed on the flash head to prevent the light spilling on the background. The light gets reflected on the material placed and avoids spilling on the background
A backdrop to portraits will give exceptional results. It will illuminate the subject and provides a pleasing look for the spectators. This is achieved on proper practice with certain modifications with every shot. By following the above stated versatile techniques, one can attain a perfect picture with the black backdrop.