Digital Boudoir Photography : A Step-by-step Guide to ... - Ken Gilbert

16 Digital Boudoir Photography
Light Modifiers
What are light modifiers? Reflectors are examples of light modifiers. Shade canopies
are another example. The reflector shown on the previous page is commercially made
and can be attached to a light stand or held by an assistant. You can also make one out
of white foam core with crinkled aluminum foil glued to it. Use spray glue and put
the dull side out so that it is not too bright. You can make them any size, but a 4’ × 4’
piece is a good workable size. To make it easier to carry, before you glue the foil on,
cut the foam core in half and use white duct tape along the length of the cut to make
a hinge. Now it will fold in half. Glue the foil on the inside so no foil can be seen
when folded. This makes it a bit easier to focus the light when it is being used.
Other Photo Equipment
Tripods are very useful and every photographer should have one. Make sure that it is
heavy duty enough to hold your camera steady. Lightweight tripods are not terribly
useful unless you are going backpacking. You use a tripod in low-light situations, in
the studio, and if you are using a telephoto lens. If you notice that your images are not
always sharp, consider using a tripod.
Filters were used a lot with film cameras, but they are used less often with digital cameras.
A lot of the filter effects can be applied digitally later, which gives you more
options. Some photographers enjoy using a soft-focus filter, especially with older
women or someone who does not have good skin. A slight softness can be pleasing.
Although you can purchase a wide variety of filters for a soft-focus effect, you can easily
make your own. Purchase a small amount of black tulle fabric. It comes in a variety
of mesh patterns and sizes. For a few dollars, you can purchase a good assortment to
play with. Cut the fabric into a square large enough to wrap around the end of the
lens. Hold it in place with a rubber band around the lens.
Different filters that can be used with both film and digital cameras. Black tulle fabric is wrapped around a lens to create a soft-focus effect.