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BetterPhoto Q&A
Category: Studio Techniques Using Digital Cameras

Photography Question 

Eric Bishop 		 

Problem with Black Background


 
  Here is what I have so far
Here is what I have so far
As you can see the black background is not very dark. I think my flash unit light went on it. Shot at f/5.6 @ 1/200

Eric Bishop

  
 
I'm having problems with taking photos using black background paper and 2 flash units. I am trying to get the background very black to where the person looks like they a completely isolated. Anyone have any ideas of how to accomplish this? I would really appreciate the help.
Thank you,
Eric


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November 18, 2005

 

Scot Benton 		  You can put more distance between the subject and the background and/or move the lighting closer to the subject. Both will help to get 1 1/2 to 2 stop difference in lighting between the subject and the background. Hope this helps.


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November 18, 2005

 

Bob Cammarata 		  More distance from the background would definitely help, but you would be limited by how much black material you actually have. (It has to fill the perimeter of the frame.)
Re-directing your flash units will also help. Point them at an angle where little or no light will hit the background ... and use a fast shutter/wide aperture combination to insure that no residual ambient light will also record.


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November 18, 2005

 

Pete H 		  Looking at your photo, it appears you are using black paper. This is NOT the background of choice for professional results.
Paper ... although it is black ... WILL reflect some light. Velvet or (any) material with texture is far superior as it acts like many tiny light traps.


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November 18, 2005

 

Eric Bishop 		  Thanks for all the help. Yes it is paper it seems to work very well in the other colors I have but this black one is giving me problems. I will try your suggestions and see what happens.

Thanks again,
Eric


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November 19, 2005

 

Debby A. Tabb 		 
 
 
Bob and Pete are both giving you great advice. Black Muslin tends to be the best for a deep black backdrop. And when shooting on black - your main light should be close, and if you look at your studio area as a clock-position, it is at between 2 and 3 o'clock. If I need fill light, I a lot of times I will bring it around near the Main for some well-lit dramatic lighting.


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November 21, 2005

 
karenemichaels.com - Karen E. Michaels

Contact Karen E. Michaels
Karen E. Michaels's Gallery 		  I keep natural black velvet. There are some synthetic velvets that cost less, but you get what you pay. Peace, karen


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November 21, 2005

 

anonymous 		  Also go into your levels. Adjust the left level (i.e, for the dark colours) and move it right about 2-3mm. Then grab the level in the middle (midtones) and move it about 5mm left. This should help make your blacks black and increase the light/contrast on his face.
Nat


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November 21, 2005

 

Eric Bishop 		  Thanks for all the advise. Nat, those pictures in you gallery are the effect I am trying to get. What are you using for you background?

Thanks,
Eric


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November 22, 2005

 

William Koplitz 		  In a large studio you can move the subject away from the background. In a small studio you need barn doors on the light or some kind of cutter card to block the light from spilling onto the background.


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November 22, 2005

 

Stan Kwasniowski 		  I agree with natalie, black velvet only way to go, I use a piece 3' x 3' made a stand and it is amazing the beautiful work you can produce, pls try it


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November 22, 2005

 

Steve Eschenburg 		  Another thing to try is to angle the backdrop away from the front light. Even the flattest paper has a sheen to it from the rollers used to press it flat. By not using the backdrop as a reflector, so to speak, less light will be bounced back to the camera.


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November 29, 2005

 
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