Using Reflectors

[candidrachel]

These might be daft questions but how do you hold a reflector and hold a camera at the same time? I've never used a reflector so I don't know how they work. I've seen them being used with an assistant holding it up for the photographer but what happens if you are the only photographer at the shoot? Do some reflectors come on a stand whereby you can just manoever it to whereever you like? How do you get a toddler to hold one?

I've seen some great photos benefiting from the use of reflectors especially with available light. I am very interested and intrigued.

Thanks x

[candleman]

1. get someone currently nor beinf photographed to hold it
2. bring an assistant(anyone over the age of 8 should do the trick)
3. buy a syand and extandable arm.. but they are somewhat prone to blowing around
4. rest in on a tree, bush, chair nearby

....thats about it

[candidrachel]

Thanks candleman. I never considered standing it up against a chair or inanimate object! Duh! lol

Thank for the reply.

[ttosifa]

While standing it up against a chair or an inanimate object is certainly a possibility, I have found this puts the reflector at a disadvantageous angle or a disadvantageous height, or both. I use Photoflex litepanels for reflection. I have had my best luck using a common light stand, a crossbar for the panel, and a T-clamp. This, together with some weight for the stand, works well even in moderately windy environments, and gives more flexibility in adjusting the height and angle. I suspect that weather conditions inappropriate for this setup would be equally inappropriate for simply propping up the reflector.