🚀 go-pugleaf

When shooting in a studio one of the frequent demands is to create a
perfect white background or a perfect black background. Whilst small
variations can be corrected using software such as photoshop this will
frequently change the subject as well. Also fine detail such as hair
might be lost. It is always best to try to light your subjects as
close as possible to the final image and not rely on photoshop. You
will however require a flash meter to get the settings right,
otherwise there will be a large amount of trial and error.
White Backgrounds.
For this situation you will not only a light for the subject but also
lights to illuminate the background. The backlight should be set up so
that it provides a diffuse light over the background that will be in
shot. There are various ways of achieving this, the easiest method I
have found is to set up some cheap flash units that having an optical
firing system.
When you have set up all the lights, turn off the studio flash which
will be for the subject or model you are shooting. Then fire the
background flashes and make a measure of the lighting. The figure you
get, say for example f32, will be to produce a neutral grey. To make
this pure white you need to over expose by 2 or 3 stops, so adjust the
exposure accordingly (f11 for the above example).
Now turn off the backlights and turn on the models light and adjust
the light output so that you get the correct amount of light for the
chosen exposure.
Now turn on all the lights and do some test shots. You will probably
have to make some minor adjustments to the exposure depending on the
actual photographic studio set up you have. How confined the space,
what color the walls are, how how the ceiling is will all effect the
amount of reflected light and consequently the exposure and light
levels you need. You will however be in the right ball park.
One frequent problem to look out for is the background having subtle
variations from white to light grey. By repositioning the backlight or
backlights and perhaps adding additional lights or diffusers this can
be corrected. Don't fall into the frequent trap of trying to
increasing the backlight massively so you have a 3 stop over exposure
in the darkest area of the background and a greater over exposure say
4 or 5 stops nearest the light. This will create problems with
lighting the subject, especially if you are working in a confined
space.
Black Backgrounds
A black background for photography is actually far easier to achieve
than a white background. There is one simple rule that will ensure
that your blacks and jet black if you follow it. Make sure your
background is at least twice the distance from the light source than
the subject is. It really is that simple. If you have the space and
there is little reflected light you will also be able to turn a
charcoal grey background cloth into a jet black one by moving the
background further back.
By using these two tips you will find that your photography is so much
more enjoyable - when you finish a photoshoot you will find that your
images are perfect without having to resort to changing levels or
curves in photoshop. Above all experiment and enjoy your photography.

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